Last weekend Lorrie, Margueritte and Richard travelled to Warrnambool to join the celebrations for the launch of the latest Australian St Ayles Skiff:  'Fast Messenger'.  The deed was done amidst the skirling of bagpipes, the singing of sea shanties, speeches and a blessing.  And she floated.  Other skiffs had been brought over from Adelaide and Melbourne, and Fast Messenger joined them for an impromptu regatta on the Sunday on the local Edwards River. 

Warrnambool (and district) is a bit of a mecca for wooden boat enthusiasts.  See the pics below for some examples of locally built boats which were exhibited as part of the festivities.  Add these to a great venue (the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village) and the terrific hospitality we received from Pat Groot, Larry Abrahams and the team and it's a wonder they were able to prise us away from the place and send us home.