Back on water at last but take care on the bar

On Wednesday we were finally able to run a WAMS event after a layoff over the last couple of weeks due to the large swell and the current potentially hazardous Mooloolah River bar conditions.

The forecast looked good – sunny day and light breeze, and swell had reduced to below a metre.  We brought forward our first start time to 1100 to take advantage of the high tide. Four boats signed on: China Blues, Bare Necessities, Mtepe and Ocean Warrior.

It was a superb quiet sailing day with sunshine, a light breeze around 8 – 10 knots and minimal seas.

Two boats, China Blues (first place) and Ocean Warrior completed the course around the Gneerings ECM and Mudjimba Island to finish before 1430 in time to return to harbour safely with the remaining tide.  Mtepe and Bare Necessities did not complete the course due to technical difficulties.

I am expecting that with dredging underway and the bar crossing becoming safe again we will see more boats out sailing, enjoying the beautiful winter conditions in Mooloolaba Bay.  However, in the meantime, consider bar crossing to be hazardous, only attempt crossing around high water and minimal swell and if you are aware of the better areas to navigate.  Otherwise stay in port and wait for better conditions.

Cheers Mark Coghlan
RC Sailing MYC