Broome

It was great to be back in Broome, and we felt right at home as we sat at anchor just a few hundred metres off Cable Beach. We spent the first few days catching up on some washing and provisioning making the often-perilous dinghy journey onto the beach – avoiding waves, rocks and swimmers before facing a 300metre drag of Bob up to beyond the high tide mark. Thanks to Brad and Carmel who helped us out with washing, bikes and general assistance during our stay.

We enjoyed catching up with all of the Broome Surf Club crew - Ric B, Rob Aristei, Pete and Carrie, Ray and Sam Campbell and Bec Famlonga - just to name a few. We loved our sunset drinks at the new club, which has had a significant renovation in the last few years. A quick walk through looking at the honour boards and perpetual trophies was a highlight and brought back many memories of the great time we had whilst living here.

Ted and Tina on On the Double arrived a week or so after us and it was great to catch up and talk about our upcoming adventure to the Kimberley. They had some family issues going on back home and their trip was abruptly halted with the passing of a family member, and they parked up the boat and headed back to Carnarvon for a few weeks.

The Broome carnival was coming up and so we were able to reunite with old friends, including Chris and Penny from Esperance and a few of the Trigg crew, which added to the overall enjoyment of our stay.

We were ready to head north but before leaving we had an important event to attend – the paddle out celebration for Greg Quicke. We were really saddened to hear of Greg’s passing as we were looking forward to catching up with him. A large group of friends gathered on the beach and after a few words and a song (Pigram Brothers – Maysong) we all paddled out in a surfer’s tribute to Greg. RIP mate.

Now it was time for the real adventure to start!!