`Peregrina', the last of the Rally yachts to depart Vanuatu has now arrived in Mackay and with news that Bali Blue and Spirit of Nina have arrived in Cairns this means that all rally yachts are now safely in Australia.

The briefing for the passage to Darwin has been completed at the Mackay Yacht Club and the Welcome Party hosted by the Marina, Shipyard and Mackay Tourism has been held at the Clarion Hotel. Our hosts were extremely generous and everyone enjoyed their first superb Australian barbecue.

Many rally participants have now flown off to explore both Sydney and New Zealand (to go skiing) and some have returned to UK and the USA to meet their families. For those remaining in Mackay there is a rally excursion out to Eungella  for authentic `Billy Tea and Damper' and a visit to the Pioneer Valley,Araluen Falls and Hatton Gorge. Apparently there will be chances to see the platypus and to take in a `pie and a pint'  at a typical Australian pub on the way back.

Most yachts will start their cruising Northwards in about a week's time and the first stop will undoubtedly be the Whitsunday Islands.