Who's bloody idea was this ? Brian White 11/9/07. Despite Brian's assessment of a particular moment in time, you will see that this trip in many ways epitomised why we do what we do.
The large onsite van with annex at the Harbourview Caravan Park could only accommodate five of the six paddlers on account of fire regulations. While the Manager shyly offered an additional scungy caravan, she couldn't have chosen any better as it was right at the entrance to the park. As the crew converged they were presented this intimate fragrant little number as their pad for the night at $15 per head. The response varied from a quiet resignation (Chris), a willingness to curl up on a four foot space jammed next to a table (Graham) to being told on no
uncertain terms where to go and that he would be sleeping in the car (Dave).
The boats were unloaded and packed in the grassy space in front of the caravan. The cars were taken to Ray's Mum's place. Hervey Bay had had a tremendous amount of rain in the preceding weeks
leaving the grassy slope somewhat soft. The rear wheel drive station wagon dug a few divots while the Subaru did what it was supposed to do and made it look like there was no problem. The little Honda promised to be a light push should the front wheels loose purchase and hands were on deck for that extra shove. Turning the wheel to avoid the sleepers flicked up an impressive mud spray and Brian copped a bodyful. Chris's tendency for the understatement was reiterated when he asked if someone could check his eye for dirt. Dirt, he had a garden bed in there. So, if he ever says the word shark, be prepared for anything.
Ray took the drivers back to the caravan park. A hop across the road for a standard club meal at The Boat Club with some fun had with squeeze resistant mint sauce squeezes. After dinner a few of us went for a walk along the breakwater which was illuminated by the odd car driving out. On one side the trawlers were tied up, on the other a new area was being prepared for what looked like
another boat harbour.
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