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Despite a nasty weather forecast calling for heavy rain and storms, the team packed their Kayaks to the gunnels and headed for an overnight adventure to Straddie. The group left at noon. Using the tide info gained from the previous trip the team left in Kayaks weighing anywhere from 15 kg (Karl's sleek machine) to 45 kg (Glenn's Battle Barge). The leisurely pace allowed for some fishing to be done, although the fish weren't biting. The boys arrived at Straddie and had the pick of campsites, choosing one near the north tip of South Stradbroke Island (S27° 45.279', E153° 26.331'). The tents were up in a flash and it was decided to trek to the other side of the island for a view. We wandered through the scrub and got to the white sand of the windward side of the island. Lots of wind but a great view (not much chance of mosquitoes staying alight). We then trekked to the northern side and hopped down the cliffs to work our way back home. After the exhausting activities it was time to hanker down and relax in earnest. The Beverages and Biscuits Phase had begun. We then migrated to Fishing and Feeding Phase. This was where Glen demonstrated his magician-like qualities and pulled a never-ending amount of supplies out of what appeared to be a bog-standard kayak. Who would have thought that there was room for a large cow's hind quarter, a gourmet cooktop stove, and all the utility bits that it takes to create a feast. Supper was great despite the fact that Gary threw back the fish he caught just before dinner. Ooh what a feast we could have had on that! As the sun set, preparations were made for the night. Although anticipating a massive attack from the mosquitoes, Karl's 80% DEET mixture generously applied to all exposed flesh ensured that all bugs within a 4.3 nm radius were too crippled to move for the next day and a half. Also, the beers and the bags of wine probably did the trick in that respect as well. As the night drew on, the sound of the ocean lapping on the shore was soon replaced by a melodious mixture of High School Musical, Abba and other assorted music Glen had pulled off his daughter's iPod. Yes, we did have all the gear! Night came early to the tired campers and we went to bed at the extreme hour of 9:00 pm - amazing we lasted that long. The morning came slowly due to 'old man's back' syndrome - an affliction that seemed to effect all except those that had 5 inch thick blow-up mattresses to sleep on. We all had a good solid 2-3 hours sleep over the 10 hour period... Breakfast varied from Shaun's breakfast in a can to Glenn's gourmet feast part 2. Everyone was well fed for the pack-up and the journey home. The group split into 2 to take advantage of the weather - one group adding a loop around Crusoe Island and the other sprinted home to catch the optimal currents. The groups made it back to Jacob's Well in a couple of hours to finish off the Adventure Extravaganza. Next trip to Moreton? |
