Excitement amongst the Trilogy crew had grown all week as we looked forward to attending our first BHCC Raft up. The weather forecast was improving by the day and by the time we cruised out of Bobbin Head at 5:30pm on Friday, the sun was shining and expected to stay that way for the next few days. Andrew (10) and Rachel (12) stowed the fenders before jumping in behind the wheel for a while as we cruised to America Bay.
Upon arrival, Trilogy was directed to pull alongside Commodore Bruce's Riviera. Before long, lines were secured and we were being introduced to fellow members who were already enjoying a drink and chat aboard Main Game. Scott and Vicky soon arrived and Daryl and Jenny rafted up on our starboard side.
The BBQ was fired up and sausages we sizzling away as the sun dropped over the hill and a perfect glassy smooth bay welcomed in the evening. A relaxing night was enjoyed by all.
Next morning, breakfast was followed by pumping a few yabbies, fishing and a minutes silence for Remembrance Day. Some of the crews then headed to Patonga Pub by water taxi whilst others loaded tenders with lunch, drinks, sporting gear and swimmers and headed off for Hallett's Beach.
A pitch was marked out, and the 2017 BHCC Hallett's Beach cricket match swung into action. The kids were in the outfield (2 foot deep water) with the idea being to see who could do the best diving classic catch. Scott looked the part with a great style and it wasn't long before Ngaire was belting a few balls around too. Vicky seemed to prefer the softball stance which was rather effective as by this stage the wicket was very rough and a full toss bowl was the way to go.
A couple of innings later, lunch was called, followed by a swim and slow cruise back to the "mother ships" for a relaxing afternoon. Andrew and I headed to Refuge beach for a late afternoon swim and catch up with some other kids - Millie and Charlie from Annalise.
Five Star and its crew, Scott, Genevieve and their 3 daughters arrived just before dinner and made a total of five boats on our mooring, with 3 boats on two other America Bay moorings. Eleven boats in all which was a great turn out.
Dinner was "pot luck" which was a delicious selection of salads, chicken, roast lamb, sausages and even sorbet for desert (the Callaghan's think of everything!). Lots of chat and a few wines before retiring to the bunks.
Sunday morning started with a kayak around the bay before tenders from the other boats descended for the Commodores morning tea onboard Main Game. Tender parking became a real challenge as 8 or so tenders plus numerous kayaks and SUP's hung off the back of the boats….a great sight!
Trilogy had planned to head off about lunchtime but with the sun shining and perfect weather we couldn't bring ourselves to leave. The girls cooled off in the bay and finally about 3pm we departed for Bobbin Head..
Monday morning was a real struggle getting back into work mode after such a fun weekend with a great group of friendly BHCC members. We thoroughly enjoyed catching up and meeting you all and look forward to many more great club functions over summer.
Big thank you to Bruce and Ngaire for their massive effort organising the Raft Up.
Grant, Louise, Rachel and Andrew
"Trilogy"