Sailing, Rain and Community Spirit mark Abell Point Yacht Club’s Australia Day Long Weekend cruise

The Abell Point Yacht Club celebrated Australia Day in true Whitsundays style with a long weekend cruise through the islands, proving that a little wind and rain are no match for good company and a love of sailing.
Five boats carrying 12 club members departed Pioneer Bay on Saturday morning, bound for Stonehaven Bay.  With winds reaching up to 22 knots, the sail across provided some lively and challenging conditions, keeping skippers and crews on their toes.  Once safely anchored in Stonehaven, however, the weather settled and the bay lived up to its reputation, offering calm, serene waters.
As the sun dipped over the ocean, crews gathered on the beach for sundowners, enjoying a spectacular sunset and a relaxed evening shared between boats.  Overnight conditions took a turn, with strong wind gusts and bullets sweeping down over the hills, accompanied by rain showers that continued into the following day.
With the wet weather persisting, plans to visit Whitehaven Beach were shelved in favour of a shorter sail to the always-sheltered Cid Harbour.  By late afternoon the rain eased just enough for spirits to lift and at 4.30pm the group came ashore to fire up the barbee for an early Australia Day beach celebration.  Children played along the shoreline while adults enjoyed a classic Aussie BBQ, making the most of a welcome break in the weather.
Australia Day morning began with a true classic — a hearty eggs and bacon breakfast cooked on the beach by the club’s own Sailing Captain, Charlie.  A small group took on the walk up Whitsunday Peak, though thick fog at the summit meant the much-anticipated views remained hidden.  Back at the beach, the morning wrapped up with lamingtons, bubbles and juice, rounding out the celebrations perfectly.
Throughout the weekend, members embraced the Australia Day theme, donning flags, hats, thongs and shorts, adding to the relaxed and festive atmosphere.  By late morning it was time to part ways, with some boats continuing their Whitsundays adventure for a few more days while others headed back to Airlie Beach.
Despite the storms and showers, the weekend delivered exactly what the Abell Point Yacht Club is known for — great sailing, camaraderie, shared meals and plenty of laughs. The club thanks everyone who took part and helped make the Australia Day long weekend such a success.
Members and the wider community are encouraged to keep an eye on the Abell Point Yacht Club website and Facebook pages for details of upcoming cruises, including the popular Easter Cruise running from 3 to 6 April.
Contributed with thanks to Lorraine Ireland

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