20 – 21 July 2019

Friday evening was an indicator to what a special evening this was going to be.  At the sailing debrief we have 3 full dinner tables for the dinner and a great attendance at Ian’s Lord Howe Island EOI presentation.

Saturday saw 17 sail boats, 11 power boats and 1 land-based contingent descend upon Canaipa.  With winds ‘gusting’ to 3 knots pretty much everyone was a power boat… 

The marquee was dressed with lights, colourful table cloths and decorations making it look very festive. 

Sundowners was wonderful – thanks on no small part to Geoff and Di’s Mulled Wine and Christmas Cake – thank you so much for this – such a treat!

Then a quick quiz time and even with a few googlers, we went to tie break questions…  Jenni Procter (book aficionado) won out with her Saint Nicolaus answer – well done Jenni!

The best dressed “C” outfit was extremely tricky for the panel (Geoff, Peter and Rosalie).  Notable outfits included – but not limited to – were Caesar, Centurion, Coke Dealers, Clown and the Caribbean Pirate.  The final prize went to the Confederates Craig and Kerry.  Apologies if I have missed anyone – I an jetlagged and there were so many amazing outfits – it shows how imaginative the groups can be!

Music throughout the night courtesy of Wayne’s speaker – thank you Wayne.

Then the amazing Key Special Dinner.  Roast beef and chicken followed by his infamous Apple Crumble, custard, ice cream and cream – yummo……  We had 77 people seated under the marquee making it a huge event and leaving no room for any more.

Bad Santa had all 29 boat entries making it a huge event.  Somehow, we managed to get through it all, have heaps of fun and even find a home for the croton!  Rod gave an impromptu speech thanking ex House Committee members for their efforts and Kev for his.  Fire and marshmallows completed the evening and we all wandered back to our warm boats.

Sunday saw a clean-up and disassembly of the lights, tables and chairs – thanks to everyone who helped with this, breakfast and a calm sail home.

Thanks to Peter S for sponsoring the lights and the Mumm bottles (prizes), Wayne for the speaker, Jan for the tablecloths, Geoff for his co-ordination and Kev for his amazing efforts all around.  It was a fabulous time made possible by the efforts of these guys and the attendance of a wonderful group of people – really appreciated.