Fans & The Gust Book

HEARTIEST CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU BOTH. MOST EXCITING FOLLOWING YOU ON YOUR MAP AND READING THE DAILY LOGS, AS WELL THE VARIOUS NEWS BULLETINS GIVEN OUT BY REGATTA NEWS AND WWW.RORC.ORG/FASTNET.

Heh PETE cam diD well at world cHAMPS second in B fINAL …BUT 5 TH fastest time at regatta ..we are about to fly to vancouver for some vickery culture….hope you are well and saIling fats in Fastnet ..it was great to catch up for a beer and a mag in lONDON… SAFE SAILING MATE AND GOD SPEED…woc and cam.

My brother, Kevin Pavlich, knowing of my interest in sailing adventures,developed through my niece Sandra marrying Terry Sargent and their life and travels on Valhalla around Melanesia, acquainted me with your exploits on the Adastra website. Complained to Kev last week that I couldn’t find any updates – voila -. Thank you Stephen. Now I can follow Berrimilla in the Fastnet and home again.

Loving it!

Alan missing Pete terribly especially Dr Coopers – chips – and an opportunity to smoke a cigar. Al lost sooooo much weight without Pete – must be cutting back on the doctor.

hi guys . we have been watching it all unfold here Good luck in the race for you guys and berri now only a stroll in the park. You will soon be on your way to this great island down south. Any more help with the rig let us know . kevin @ denise

Alex and Peter

Read your updates every time (when we are in Sydney) Appreciate what you have achieved because we both sail as well.

Must be your 21st regular!!

Mostly your updates on the sailing aspects of the passage are clear and self explanatory. We don’t feel that we need to add to the complexity of your day by passing unnecessary comments – and neither of us has run more than a few hundred metres for years.

Nothing you have written about P’land urges us to race over there. Consistent with about five other first hand but very ordinary accounts of the place that we have had in the past two months; including one other round the world sailor, an ex-Pom that we met whilst we were on hols a couple of weeks ago, a couple who had taken their long service leave to tour Britain and Europe but decided to cut their losses after a couple of weeks and flee back to Oz and Jenny’s sister – who lives in Somerset.

Much of the rest of the world seems to be too much of a culture shock to us down under. The verdict is we don’t know how well off we are – so lets not throw it away!

Incidentally, the weather here is fine, 20-21 or 22 degrees but not a lot of wind.

Cheers to both of you and we will watch your passage in the Fastnet with great interest – have no affinity with the sailing show ponies any more though. Once would have followed in great detail.

J and J

Great stuff, Alex! Keep it up!

Thanks again for a wonderful weekend around Lymington on the Berrimilla with us land lubbers from south London, truly an honour. Look forward to seeing your progress back to Sydney. Best wishes, Tom

Hi Guys,

You’re legends – I’ve got lots of time on my hands recovering from C surgery, so your logs have been great. Keep it up. See Sunstone is on the list of things to do – say gidday to Tom and Vicky for me.

Cheers Rick

PS If I could manage to get it down south, wonder if my Custom 30 Bacchus could give Berri a hiding around the cans ….

Hi Alex, Peter,

You are both bloody heros, Alex, as you know i’ve only spent 7 days in a row on Berri when she was called ‘Leven’ (84 Hobart)hats off to both of you, been folowing your progress – what a roller coaster both physically and mentally. All going to plan i will be sailing back to Hobart again this year and look forward to catching up with the both of you.

Keep up the great effort it will all be worth it…….patience and persistence always pays off

David

A followup to Michael Saunders log in the gust book and to let Hilary know the result of her phone call. I rang Phil Davenport’s daughter in Tas. Phil D. is alive and well and she will follow up with Michael re contact. It’s a small world! Good luck for the Fastnet race. Margie

The very first time I heard about Alexs plan was from Hilary. I was a bit shocked at that moment; I thought I misunderstood her English.

Is it for real? I was suspicious.

She nodded firmly.

I was still unsure.

Then I had the honour on board Berrimilla in December 2003, before Berri competed Sydney to Hobart. Alex was very kind that I toured a bit Sydney Harbour my very first sail in this life!

I imagined the picture of the tiny Berri in the wild ocean.

Then Alex and Pete started the journey. On this side of the world, I was showing the website, telling my colleagues about that foreigners crazy plan; how he runs his marathons that none of us has ever done at our age (or even younger).

Then Alex and Pete made it!!!

CONGRATULATIONS, Alex and Pete!!!

And to Hilary and the families: Congratulations!!! Thanks to your support!!!

Alex & Pete,

I am so happy that you, Leroy and Karen Chiao had an opportunity to meet each other. I bet that was an out of this world experience!

Take care and good luck on your voyage!

Brittany Guillory

I was surfing the net and entered Philip Davenport into the Google search engine and your “Gust Book” (or should it be Guest Book) came up. I met Philip and his wife Rosseta way back in the early fifties in Punta Arenas (Magellan Strait).My family were pioneering residents of southern Patagonia and at the time lived in Punta Arenas. I was about 14 then and I became absolutely fascinated by the Davenport’s adventure and as a result spent most of my after school hours with them on Waltzing Matilda during their stay. I guess Philip must have been equally impressed by my keen interest as he chose to immortalize me in his book “The Voyage of The Waltzing Matilda”. As it turns out, Philip and the crew, his wife Rosseta, brother Keith and Don Brown were responsible for inspiring me to take up sailing in later years. I now live in London Ontario Canada, since 1972 and have been an avid sailor for about 40 years. I am on my 5th sailboat a 52′ Jeanneau in which I recently completed a four month cruise up the west coast of Greenland and across Baffin Bay to the Canadian Arctic (latitude 76 N) and then back down the Labrador coast and the St. Laurence to the Great Lakes area. The original purpose of the expedition was to sail the Northwest Passage to Vancouver during which a documentary of the trip would made by a French documentary producer for French TV. Unfortunately the ice did not open up enough that season to allow the safe passage for our fiberglass vessel and that part of the voyage was aborted as was the filming of the documentary. It was at this time that the true adventure began for me. The documentary producer who shall remain nameless for the time being had borrowed substantial sums of money to finance the expedition. As part of our notarized agreement I had offered the vessel free of charge on the condition that all extra equipment such as electronics safety equipment sails etc. supplied by sponsors was to be left on the boat at the completion of the trip. Also as part of the terms he was to supply competent crew and be responsible for all expenses incurred including insurance coverage for the vessel. An equally important part of the agreement was that he and his crew would return the vessel to a safe harbor namely Vancouver or in the event of being unable to get through, return it at St.Johns Newfoundland on the East Coast. In his desperation over his financial stress he tried to extort money from me by threatening to abandon me to my own devises in the middle of the Arctic 2100 miles north of St Johns Nfld. Not only was he going to abandoning me but in addition he was threading to take all of the sponsored equipment off should I not agree to pay a substantial amount of money (about US$21,000). One has to visualize the scenario…Here we are anchored off this Inuit community of seven hundred people in fifteen feet of water surrounded by gigantic grounded icebergs which are gradually breaking apart in the summer heat of 5 degrees Celsius and these guys are ready to jump ship. Any way I guess I am getting carried away here….the saga continued for a further 45 days but I don’t wish to impose on you all so if any of you are interested in hearing the rest of the story and the outcome just drop me a line, (I think somewhere here there could be material for a book).

The real purpose of this note was to ask if you have an address to contact the Davenport family though I did hear that Phil may have passed on. Any info on this would be much appreciated. By the way I take it by reading the messages in your guest book that you have another site recounting a voyage…??? If so please send me the address as I am interested in reading about it….

I look forward to hearing from you.

With my best regards,

Michael Saunders

Hi Peter & Alex, Its about time we signed in. The web site is great, we,ve been with you since Hobart sharing the adventure form the comfort of land. Feeling sympathy for the sore bums etc but especially for having to have off days. Good luck in the race, looking forward to reading more & having you home safely. Love Joan & Noel

Hello Peter and Alex. Your journey is inspiring. Best wishes to both of you from Michael Pam Jessica Alice Lily and Annabelle.

Hello Alex and Pete. My bet was on June 3rd, so you rascals really put the wind in the sheets to cheat me of a Berri shirt!!! I’ve written in the past, particularly when you were rounding the Horn. Met up with Isabella just before you got to Falmouth and she gave me some updates. I am particularly fond of your reflective accounts of the visuals, the solitude, and the ambient conditions. Hope you are successful in competing in Fastnet. Will watch this space with interest as always and will keep fingers and toes crossed for your good luck and safe arrival back in Sydney later this year.

Had to update my original entry after reading the logs for the last week or so.What you blokes have done has been phenomenal. Of course, it has frightened me out of taking my new boat off shore ever, but other than that I am just so impressed, overawed and generally amazed. Good luck for the Fastnet and on the trip home. Godspeed.

Good effort you old salts. Eleanore says hello as well.

Cheers Wendy

Hi Pete and Alex, Congratulations on making it!! I have been following your journey with much interest. My friends can’t believe how crazy you guys are on this big adventure on a tiny boat. Now you just have to win the fastnet… I will call you this week to plan a visit to Leymington over the next few weeks. Take care and enjoy the dry land. Love Jackie xx

Coombsy

Looking forward to catching up when you’re back in Sydney

Xander, so pleased you made it safely inro Falmouth-have been following your incredible journey. Congratulations to both of you. Enjoy your time in the UK and good luck for the next stages. We will be thinking of you and following you along the way. I hope you write a book when you get back to Sydney. Much love Madeleine

I have thoroughly enjoyed and been most interested in following your journey, reading your daily logs and following the progress maps. I have sent a letter of thanks to Malcolm who has been so patient and persevered in giving us his daily bulletins. Mummy and I have also kept you constantly in our prayers. CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU BOTH ON YOUR WONDERFUL ACHIEVEMENT. GOOD LUCH FOR FASTNET. HOPE WE MIGHT MEET UP AT ISABELLA’S OR ELSEWHERE

I hope you will both get out to Malta were she is longing to see you Very much love. Lilian

Away last week and without internet access so missed your arrival. Congratulations to you both on you voyage so far from Penny and me, we hope to meet up whilst you are here. Nick

..and former workmate to Alex. Family and friends have been following all the way – highlight of the day has been reading the email! Despite several attempts to get me onto Berri (including an offer of unlimited beer) it has yet to happen – will try that much harder when you get back. In the meantime, good luck for the Fastnet and I hope that you will remain equally informative for the return journey.

Hi Alex and Pete,

Really enjoyed talking to you guys from the International Space Station! Look forward to meeting you in England or Scotland!

Leroy Chiao, PhD

Commander and NASA Science Officer

International Space Station, Expedition 10

I’ve been wondering how long it takes to stop swaying when you get back on land after all that time at sea. I’m thrilled that both of you have taken on so bravely the challenge of your very arduous and individual endeavour.

Hey there guys ,

Just wanted to say a big CONGRATULATIONS on getting this far. You are both doing RANSA very proud. This evening after the Saturday winter series race , Janet from the club gave the crowd your location and your achievments thus far. Good luck for Fastnet and the remaining nautical miles until you get back to Aus. for the Hobart this year.

Alex – we are bloody proud of you ! well done from all at home and everyone at keycorp. Enjoy one or two and a nice walk on soft sand.

cheerio

sal

(+16)

Sort of family that is…..my daughter Alana goes out with Peter’s nephew Gavin…it looks like your near your destination if not already there. As a new to sailing person I take my hat off to you both…absolutely wonderful and I look forward to meeting you both one day and hearing some first hand experiences. Best Regards, Bill Ryder

Great to hear that you are safely in Falmouth. What an incredible journey – have been enjoying reading your logs – some almost made me grateful for a day in the office! Overwhelming impression is that it wasn’t always easy. Enjoy that first gin and tonic.

May I just take this opportunity to congratulate you on reaching mother England!! You and your team have achieved something that you should be admired and respected for. Thanks for the daily logs, stories etc and enjoy the rest of your adventure, we will be with you all the way in thought and spirit.

Graham, Ceri, Kaitlin and Sal.

Congratulations on your incredible journey. We met your brother/sister-in-law on Pendennis Point when he asked to borrow our binoculars to see you coming in. We just had to stay and watch your arrival and made our way home after you had passed by Black Rock. Well done to you both – Best Regards

Congratulations on arriving in Falmouth…….you deserve a few pints and a safe trip home.

after so many hobarts arriving at all hours i am sorry i can’t be there to greet you in uk but thinking of you any way

john alex and jane

Ever since you tried the Sydney to Rio in c.1980, I had no doubt you would go it again…and succeed. And to have Pete take a guernsey, what a team. Robert

Mother England in sight well done guys. Alex i was thinking of you at dinner in SanDiego last Saturday night on the deck of the USS Midway. May the sea lanes be clear for your arrival in Plymouth?

Luv your attitude.

Concurs with mine

Keep it going

i will watch progress and email eplies with relish

Ahoy Alex! Best of luck with the final leg of your voyage. Congratulations on living out your dream. Your daily updates (which I occasionally read between breaks at work) have made morning coffees a whole new experience. Thanks for sharing your adventure.

Read your line about the last fresh egg covered with vasoline.Strange.My favourite is hot and runny dipped with little soldiers.Checking your progress every day. Stay safe. Ted

Alex @ Pete. A fine voyage for any vessel and any crew. You have climbed the “HORN” the everest of every sailors dream and then sum. In spirit We are on board with you untill you sail safely back through the heads. kevin @ denise

Hi Croz.

BLOODY AMAZING !!!!!

I was telling your story to the Headmaster of The King’s School ( Cam’s school) and as an Englishman and a sailor he was very interested ….after your epic how does the challenge of telling your story to a bunch of students appeal ?. mate this straight out of ‘BOYS OWN ADVENTURES”. Alex King’s has a connection with Scott ( Antartic expedition )as an old boy…he went a bit further south!!!.

Enjoy the layover ..I hope I can see you in UK.

WOC.

The Intensive Reading classes at Belmore South P.S.are following your progress.

They love hearing about Peter having to sew up the ripped sail and showering in the rain and having a sore bum. Ideas for a children’s book perhaps???

Good luck, and see you when you reach land.

Alex Peter Gang -

I sent you a long email on April 8, 2005 telling you how much I have enjoyed reading your Log since February. I’m putting this short message in your gust book to let you know that I am still reading but I don’t want to take up bandwidth by sending you an email.

If you didn’t receive the April email, let me know and I will send it to you again when bandwidth is more plentiful.

I just found the links to all the pictures of the voyage up to the Falklands. They are so interesting. Thank you for uploading them.

Keep on keeping on …

I hope that my “Software-On-Board” has allowed you to spend less time looking at the sun through a sextant, and more time looking for a space-ship through binoculars! I can’t help seeing some strange irony in that man hasn’t walked on Mars because the sociologists can’t find a crew compatible for close-quarters living for 7 months – your next journey should take you closer to the ISS – I reckon you two would get to Mars without breaking a sweat…

It’s been terrific following your logs, I wish you all the best for the 2nd half of your adventure.

I first met Alex after losing a ride in a Friday RANSA Twilight (It turns out the boat sank, but that is another story). I meandered up to the bar in my best salty sailing gear, asked for a foamy, and yelled,” Anybody lookin’ for crew?”

Several blank stares were returned and few hairy eyeballs were cast in my direction. Feeling smallish, I quickly finished my beer and headed for the exit. On the way out, someone mumbled behind me, “Have a look at the CYC for Alex on Berrimilla, he’s short tonight.” I tossed a quick thanks over my shoulder & smiled. It’s looking up!

Meeting Alex is what I remember most about the first sail on Berri. With the full complement of experience & training a skipper must have, how did Alex find the time learning to become such a well mannered gentleman as well? 10 Minutes of chatting & I felt at home. That was the first of several twilights with Alex and Berri. I hope there are more to follow!

I remember Alex mentioning this round the world trip, & I am glad that he has had the chance to take up the challenge!.

I will follow Alex, Peter & Berri with great interest, and look forward to their return!

Paul Doyle, one of my bellringing mates, suggested I visit your website. He said I would find it interesting and amusing. I have found it that – congratulations on your bravery, perserverance and studied use of your medicine cabinet. I’ve always thought there was a great affinity beween sailing and bellringers. There seems to be a disproportionate number of bellringers who go sailing (or at least that’s their excuse on Sunday morning).

looks like alot of fun- I’m hoping to cruise someday too! I’ve a catalina 27 now and am learning the ropes.

Kurt

I’ll go have a beer for you right now

Hi Alex & Peter,

Have been thinking alot about you both since you took off on your wild adventure, sorry it has taken me this long to get in touch with you. What you are both doing is just amazing, it is inspiring to have met two crazy men like you. Happy sailing days and you never know might get to see you in the UK, heading back to Europe for a short break. Take care , all my love .. Mary xx

are you going for a guinness world record?

it seems to me that you have not stopped sailing for a VERY LONG time.

HELEN

Hi Uncle Pete and Alex!!!

Love reading your logs!!! You guys are the topic of conversation all the time -we are always taling amongst the family about what your latest news was!! What are we going to talk about when you get back!!!

Stay safe, keep the adventures coming, and keep your bums well padded!!

Hi there Pete and Alex,

Wow, the site now looks terrific! My congrats to Malcolm. I have only ever been logging in to read your log entries, and today is the first day since you set off that I bothered to scroll down… and I find all this great stuff.

Anyway, hope all is well and your bums aren’t too bad.

Looking forward to seeing you in Blighty.

Lots and lots of love, Siobhan.

PS, sorry it’s taken me so long to write in the Gust book, I didn’t know where it was!!

Sx

Hello boys! Sounds like I would have needed the stoogies and bucket for some of it. Am keeping tabs on you and considering rides for the S2H. Getting in some training on bow of a Syd 38! (just to maintain the standards needed for berri) and keeping an eye on Hilary!

I see Laura has beaten me to it! I’ve been following the whole journey with ever increasing wonder! God knows how you do it but I hope at least some of us will be around when you arrive.

Peter,

The big question from the lads at the ABC Tech Services (techos) is, was the weight of medicines leaving port greater than the weight of the boat?

On behalf of all the Scarlettinis and CYC riff raff, plus my parents & sailing buddies at home, keep the updates coming & may all your gusts blow you smoothly in the right direction!

Hi there Pete and Alex – we are back from our 4 weeks overseas which seems trivial to what you are doing. We have left Ben behind in the UK!!! Looks like I have a lot of reading to catch up on so we will get the boss over for a meal and get the gossip first hand. Cheers from Gusts Dianne and Richard

I think your trip is fantastic and shows a whole range of people what can be done on a small yacht with (I assume) a limited budget. It’s a really great effort.

Really enjoy following thejourney,mind you I don’t envy you both in the conditions you have experienced. Keep smiling,and churning out the news. Safe sailing.

Friend,sailor, met along the way, and interested observer. Constant critic of this pair of boofheads living thir dream, but with them and support them in every way. Good luck boys, Where do I send my $10 to start the fund to get you back.

I’ve met you shortly in Hobart, and I follow your trip regularly.

Good luck George

Gary Leahey alerted me to your site. I’m a lifetime ‘boater’ and have been following your voyage with interest. Good luck for the remainder of the journey.

Now it’s 21 or so following along, good luck guys and just remember the southern knockdowns were preparation for the weather you’ll “enjoy” when you tie up in the UK (suggestion: keep going).

Your entries are addictive reading and it’s great to be transported to your world with each entry I read in the Log.

Owner of Northshore 38 (swordfish) met at CYC before returning my boat to Melbourne. I will be sorry to see the guys finish as it is a fantastic trip to watch form home.

Hi Alex & Pete, it’s Helga (Sylvara sheet person), I’m the one in the York Street office dreaming about exchanging my pc for a little yacht travelling round the world. But only as long as it could call into a port every night….

Anyway, just wanted to mention, are you 2 strapped in? You can’t tell by the photo at the top of the website. My brother and his mates were taking a boat from Florida across the Atlantic and they were hit by a freak (unexpected) wave. He’s only still there because he was strapped in and his mates hauled him back on board. Then he stayed in his wet clothes and ended up with hypothermia, but that’s another story. Am enjoying your log. It makes a great and realistic read….

all the best for the next leg

Helga

Don’t know if I’m a friend or sailor since I’m now living so far from the water. Maybe friend while in England and will be sailor again when I get back to Oz. Look forward to sharing a beer and a few tales when you get here.

Hi guys! Thanks for; ensureing my long night shifts are complete with entertainment and education. In particular appreciative of preparation and provisioning details. Don’t forget to keep giving insight by describing the the things and processes you take for granted – like your watch system and how it came about. I’m already looking for some ‘gucci’ dorade vents.

SV Glory Days, Sayer 38, Mooloolaba

While searching the web site to sign in as a guest

And write a line or two in jest

I found I had been relegated to being a gust

So all that I have to say in the matter is just

This.

Hey Pete!! I have been following your progress, however lately I have been a bit slack as I have been travelling. I am in England at the moment and will probably be here at the beginning of the Race so I may come see you off at the port seeing as I am missing the Hawkesbury this year. Have Fun. Bid

Hi guys – great stuff. I’m new to sailing at 61 years of age after developing a love of the ocean from doing some marathon ocean surf ski races. Just got a 41 foot Beneteau with a view to doing some serious cruising. I’m still a danger to shipping but learning fast. Mark Knapman, whom you’ll know, from Manly LSC suggested I follow your site. Inspirational! And good luck

Maggie worked with Alex for several years.Ian is ex sailor and ex MN (UK).

Love your work guys. Great achievement and your logs bring it all home very vividly. And you reckon that YOU get nervous!! Never miss a day. Judging by the congregation you’ve got a lot of great support. Pity we can’t stand a watch or two for you.

“Consulting the Doctor” has now passed into the language for ever.

Here’s wishing you “Fair winds and smooth seas” guys.

Keep going guys and your shore based crew!!!! Fantastic effort so far and we have been following from the beginning. Your log is great reading and will be a wonderful keepsake in the future. All of the crew from the yacht “spearhead” are in awe of your achievements so far. Keep sailing safely and i hope the wind direction is favourable for the rest of your travels in the “mighty Berrimilla”. What a wonderful woman she is!!! take care. from Rick Fielding (owner spearhead)

Alex,

Great work to get where you are – the logs make a really good read too. If you get back in time for the Sydney to Hobart, I might just fly down there to catch up on the adventure when you hit Constitution Dock.

Safe trip, Scott.

Les from Komatsu crew here.

Been following from the start, well done Alex and Peter. Karen and I will be in Cowes this year, so will make the effort to track you down (shouldn’t be too hard I wouldn’t think) and shout you a pint or 2.

Well done to date and look forward to catching up in Cowes.

Bet you have often thought about sitting in the sun having lunch at the Taste of Tassie, a few deep fried mushrooms…………….a cold pint………..

Will all be worth it in the end.

The advantures of Alex and Pete makes very interesting reading, especially on a Sydney train – at times one wonders which is going faster, Berrimilla or the train! Keep going guys.

I well remember the excitement of the reviewing of the fleet. I did’nt need to be dragged from Beech Hall School Macclesfield. Fond memories ,havimg just returned from living in Africa my initiation was to be beaten up for not being black, obviously a severe disappointment to me and them. My Mother and I spent the night at a friend’s house in London, before taking the train with you (I think)to Portsmouth. I remember the awesome size and number of ships and being given a chart showing the name and anchorage position of all of them. Sadly long since mislaid.Hope you enjoy your “crossing the line” ceremony sometime tomorrow. Nick

Fantastic effort. To have got through so many storms is a testament to your endurance and the boat’s seaworthiness. It is almost a shame that these yachts are no longer produced. Would have been the marketing coup of all times.

Known Pete & Jean for about 35 years, got onto boats in the Med for a few months after intros from them, around 1973, had a great time. now I surf regularly, that’s about the closest I come to the waves. This website is an epic, far bigger than ben hur, and much more gripping. all the best Pete (and Alex).

would like to think this Guest Book came about, at least partly, through my Anzac Day email suggestion to Alex and Pete … but then again, probably suggested by lots of others too!!! Absolutely fascinating log (the space station interaction really caught my fancy) and the fact it is almost real time, is sometimes a little hard to grasp. I sincerely hope my estimate of 15/07 is waaaay later than the real arrival date. On second thoughts, a slab of Pete’s home brew wonldn’t go astray, so maybe 15/07 it should be Should be a fabulous party when Berri finally makes it back to Sydney and more than a little fun to meet in person the many people who have helped make this adventure so personal for you and compulsively interesting reading for each of us.

Although I have done quite a bit of offshore yacht racing/delivery, I don’t think I would have ever conceived sailing so far in such a small boat. I dips me lid to you both. Best wishes for fair winds and god speed.

I have been following your adventures over the last couple of weeks, after I finally read the RANSA newsletter and looked at your Website. I am absolutely fascinated by your logs and I lack the will power to take the rough and tumble you are putting yourself through. You have confirmed my thoughts of confining my cruising to SW Pacific. Maybe I will mature one day and be more adventurous.

SYLVARA RANSA

I met Berri and Alex after sailing to Hobart on the Young Endeavour when it was radio relay vessel. I’ve since sailed to Hobart once on Berri (’96) and twice back (’95 and ’96) as well as doing various twilight series and a few other races. Good luck guys – really takes me away from sitting in front of a computer.

Compulsive reading for an old Adastra crewman, nearest I come to your passages was as crewman on the Survey (Grimsby Class) Sloop HMAS Warrego in 1951 rounding Cape Leeuwin in a decidedly rough one, must admit slightly larger than the Berrimilla though. After daily sitreps, we (here) lead a dull life.

Keep going to eventually arrive at Falmouth June 5 (05!)GMT 0800. Cheers Kev.

Having taken Berri (then called Leven) to Hobart three times (’84-’85-’86) I

know what a wonderful little boat she is. Am absolutely delighted to know she

is still loved & cared for.My regards & respect to you both.

Hi you 2, just back from holiday to Cape Reinga, looked at some loverrrrly yachts. Trying to find one to follow in your wake in a few years. Jen has started the newsletter for the Dunners Yacht Club, they are keen to learn of your adventures. I was thinking of using some of your transcript for a speech at Toastmasters when I get back there in a few months (Toastmasters, too busy at the mo)

You are both never far from our thoughts. Safe sailing Brian and Jen.

I have spent every day this year looking forward to what is happening out there with Alex and Pete – the frightening bits are now part imbedded in my brain – like many we were “almost” there too. I have met Alex once or twice through my interest and writing on aerial survey history – his old Adastra images of aircraft and personalities being evocative. Alex and Pete thanks for enriching our lives – you have done that you know. regards

Doug and Estelle Morrison

well i’ve put friend ‘coz I’ve decided I’m not a ocean sailor ever again & those are the only real sailors. I’m afraid you will have to stay out there, or at least in the virtual studio boat – what will I read at breakfast when you get ashore again. Luv yus both fionaxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The Sailing Finger writes; and, having writ,

Moves on: nor all Alex’s Piety nor Peter’s Wit

Shall lure it back to cancel half a Line,

Nor all the WAves wash out a Word of it.

Keep writing

Ahoy Alex and Pete. I have joined you on your journey and it has been fascinating! May the Weather Gods be friendly and send you fast winds, may Neptune look after you in this great adventure and may the Guiness never run out! Best wishes (and stay dry) – Julita (Your dentist Alex. I hope you remembered to pack your toothbrush…)

We have a mutual acquaintance in the form of one Gordon Smith, schoolfriend. Still trying to pin him down for a dinner and a squiz at the website.

Hi Pete – we met Jeanne while walking the other day and she told us of your epic journey – fantastic experience! we’ll keep reading with interest – ain’t technology amazing being so far away but as close as a computer keyboard – best wishes.

I am absolutely loving reading the minutiae of your epic voyage. It is an awesome feat for two blokes in a liitle boat. I really look forward to your daily updates.

Peter’s wife Jeanne is in my faculty at Pendle Hill High.

Congratulations to you both for achieving so much, and for sharing your wild and crazy adventure with us, as we sit here precariously perched on our typing chairs at our computers, and you are steering by the stars, finding black holes in the universe, and conversing with albatross … bravo!

I’m a friend of Alex’s sister Isabella in the UK – we met online through an arty group. I lived around the corner from Alex in Cremorne and never knew! I’m in awe of the courage of these two possums and their incredible journey.

Hi, met Alex through Hillary and the sea-scouts. I’ve been rivetted by the gruesomeness. Completely tangentially, my wife Margaret went to school with Phil Davenport (“Waltzing Matilda”)’s daughter Stevie, and when he built another WM (of wood) we sailed with him on it in 1974. Wish you both well in a real epic.

Through Malcolm have met Alex once at the end of the S2H and managed to have a look around Berri after the race with the kids. My son was most interested in the en suite bog!!!!

Read the web site every day and have nothing but admiration and a little envy at your braveness on what must be the adventure of a lifetime.

I understand that you are both runners also and whilst I have e-mailed you before and mentioned this thought it would be in order, if you did not get that e-mail, to let you know that there is a Guy called Jesper Olsen who is in the process of running around the world. He started from London and has run across Europe, Asia, Australia and is on the final leg running across the USA before running downhill from Scotland to finish back in the UK at the end of the year. How sad that your schedules do not quite cross that you could meet each other. His web site is www.worldrun.org.

The other question I had asked was if your journey was made into a film who would you like to play you?

Best wishes for the rest of your journey and will be keeping a daily watch on your progress

Alex keep right on till the end of the road. And get your finger out Hilary is awaiting.

I’m Isabella’s other half and inevitably press-ganged (how appropriate) into enthusiastic and brother-in-lawish support – and a general admirer of Whitworth Tenacity. I don’t know Pete but reckon the video pictures of such calm reading and sleeping command respect. Having once done some sailing and having had an enjoyable, amateur day on Berri at Sydney, I can easily imagine what it’s like – and can relish it all vicariously without personal discomfort or exertion. My dog uses the dogbowl and we don’t have to grow beans in the bog. There’s a lot to be said for other people’s ferals and tribulations – so well done with the log and for carrying out your dream.

Hi Alex and Pete. I’m Ben Boyd’s mum. Ben sailed with Alex to Hobart one year and regaled us with stories of mountainous waves etc. My sailing experience has been limited to once up the west coast of Scotland and twice around the Whitsundays which was scary enough for me!!!! I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing your experiences of life on board particularly tales of the doctor and breadmaking and even the bottom sores!!! Keep up the emails!!!

Hello all,

I have known Pete, Jeanne & family for many years through holidays at Jamberoo.

I was a fine weather sailor in a former life, starting in the Sea Scouts on the high seas of Sydarb in a Whaler and have progressed as owner sailor of a V J, Laser and Windsurfer.

I was forced ashore by arthritis. My Lasered knees were replaced and now I enjoy this EPIC, blow by blow, as an armchair sailor.

I occasionally get a bit of the feeling by standing under a cold shower dressed in party gear, drinking a drop from the doctor and I email dubious advice to Alex and Pete.

I wonder if the film will be as good as the log.

Here’s to a southerly,

Barry.

The crew of Tilting at Windmills are following the progress of Berri with close interest, sending good wishes, discussing progress, sharing your hopes and fears.

Pete & Alex

Janet and I have read every entry. We have photos of Janet presenting you the RANSA pennant and are really happy to hear of your safe progress. We are with you every mile. We don’t want to lumber you with traffic, just know we are thinking of you.

Janet & Chris

I have the great honour of sailing with Pete, Jean, Bobby boy and George on the good ship Anna. Pete also did a top job renovating our flat, though we wont talk about how long it took.

Cheers & safe travels.

A friend did a Hobart on Berrimilla and have been following Berrimilla ever since. Just missed catching up with them in Hobart this year before they departed. Bugger! The logs generally manage to put a smile on my dial every day and a twinge of wanting to be doing the same, well while the wind is below 40k that is :->.

I had a small share in the original Berrimilla with Alex about 100 years ago. I would love to sail around Cape Horn but after reading about the conditions on board I wonder if I could have coped. It all makes great reading. Who is plannning the welcome home party ? You’ll need to hire the Town Hall !

Articulated in emails at key milestones. Email #2 is in the typewriter as we speak. (Owner: Baker-built Brolga “Django”. Hooked on… Your momentary flashes of intelect & wisdom… obviously assisted by all to frequent visits to the Doc, Your whimpering, Your Whoopee and the Powers of Observation of two great sailors in a remarkable vessel.

Peter is a good friend to myself and ‘Anna [a Northerner 28′]’ who with Jeanne Crozier and myself managed to win our Division in the CYC/BMW Winter Series a couple of years ago. Jeanne also enabled ‘Anna’ to come a credible Second in a Compass 28/29 Regatta this year!

The closest I’ve been to doing a brave adventure in a boat was a ferral canal boat holiday in wales with 10 other blokes and 3 girls! I’m really enjoying reading the logs – it’s the first thing I do each morning when I get into the office – a good coffee sipping exercise. Good luck – oh yes and my parents and half my family in the UK are also reading the logs.

Gordon Smith and Fiona have both sailed on Berri to Hobart and Alex took me for a sail on Syd Harbour one day. (I currently sail a 44.2 xboat)Fiona and I go diving together and Gordon caters for me regularly.(Read that as you will)

I knew about Alex’s plans long before they came into fruition so have been dribbling over my fruit and yoghurt reading reports with avid interest.

I would like to email them but feel my connection is a bit dim for Alex to remember me.

Fiona and I are off to see the new Hitchhikers movie today and will report back as I am sure they will be interested.

When it boils down to it, with brains the size of a planet you wonder why they are both out there doing it!

Tori Pollard

You have made me rethink my ambitions to take Rough Justice for a long cruise, I was expecting 10-15% poor weather, certainly not what you have been allocated.

A magnificant effort so far and I am sure that only your persevance and vast experiance has got you so far. On behalf of all RANSA members and the crew of Rough Justice we wish you fair winds and kind seas for the rest of your voyage.

Great reading, what a way to start my day.

Cheers and Beers Doug Murchison

I sailed to the BBQ on Neds Beach last Nov on board Athena(thanks to Drs McKay). The return home was to say , interesting , given the several storms we went thru and could not get back to mainland directly.Eden in Dec was not much different in the end. Can really appreciate and enormously repsect what these 2 fine gentlemen have and will endure . Fascinating reading , and I would love to try the Dr Coops when they return home and hear more.

Best regards

Andrew Mc.

p.s Did send some e-mails , but guess they did not get thru.

It’s great reading ; I would/could not possibly undertake this journey unless it was in the Queen Mary so reading the daily antics is almost like being there

It’s only fairly recently that I got to know Alex through my involvement as honorary Webmaster for the Adastra Aerial Surveys history project. During his time with Adastra, Alex was a diligent photographer and he has generously made his photos available to the Adastra website. His photos are not your average snaps either. Check out his portrait of the legendary Lionel Van Praag

http://www.adastra.adastron.com/people/lionel-1.htm

Anyone wishing to gain an insight into Alex’s time at Adastra is invited to visit the website www.adastra.adastron.com but you will have to be content with searching the site for “Alex”. My suggestion to Alex that he should devote his considerable idle time towards writing his biography for the Adastra site only brought a suggestion involving a velocipede.

God speed Alex and Pete and the good ship Berri.

These days just an arm chair sailor due to work commitments. Happened on the site by accident when Berri & co were somewhere between Hobart & Dunedin. Having done the ’93 Hobart & finished I can appreciate what its like out there in filthy weather although from the Logs Berri & co have experienced much worse.

One question is Berrimilla the original name of the yacht. I have vague thoughts that it might have been Take Time which was a Brolga 33 sailing out of the CYCA which always seemed to get there!! keep the logs coming I am looking forward to my continuing early morning sailing fix. Good sailing

[From Alex: Berrimilla was Leven in 1984.5.6 S2H, Finished them all, owned then by Brian Cunneen and before that was called Nea. Take Time still around, now cruisy, lives in North Arm near Forty Baskets]

eerr my interest is actually looking over Malcolm’s shoulder, asking lots of nosey questions and waiting on the end of the pier at various destinations when hes finished a sailing race. Im probably what you call a vicarious sailor by association but would rather prefer dogs and doing pottery. I’m really enjoying watching the progress of the lads and how this whole thing has blossomed and reached out to all involved included the men in space!! Go Berri

Writer of regular trivia-to-berri and occasional fixer; current project cockpit cushions for sore bums.

Well someone had to be second in line.

Someone had to be the first to put something in here and there were technical reasons why it had to be me!

I’ve known Alex and Peter since a very fortuitous meeting after the 2001 Sydney/Hobart. They’d decided to do the Sailing South regatta in Hobart and were kind enough to give me a ride on Berri.

During the course of that regatta it became obvious that she is a great little boat and that the crew worked well together and watched out for each other. I thought at the time that, if I were to ever do a Sydney/Hobart, that boat and that crew would be the ones to do it with!

To cut a long(ish) story short, Alex subsequently invited me to do the next Gosford to Lord Howe race and then backed it up with a Sydney/Hobart that same year. I’ve said it before but it’s worth restating – there aren’t many home-comings more fantastic than being at the helm of the boat, driving her up the Derwent and crossing the finish line to the cheers of family and friends! It’s right up there under the heading of “Dreams Come True” and this boat and these blokes made it possible!

I’ve now had the privilege of having done 3 Sydney/Hobarts and 2 Lord Howes on Berri and I can’t imagine a more reliable boat or more competent crew to undertake this amazing endeavour.