Sailings of the “Kate”
The restored former trading cutter ‘Kate” has continued in service as a classic yacht, maintained and crewed entirely by volunteers.
She was sailed on 19 days, the primary objective being to train a group of experienced sailors who know the ropes and can crew on her. We now have 19 experienced crew members, including 3 masters and 5 mates. Several youngsters were involved, one 14-year-old boy in particular who was home schooling gained considerable experience in both maintenance and sailing.
A log book was kept, recording the names and number of Persons On Board (POB). The total POB for the year was 103.
On 29th October the “Kate” was hauled out for annual maintenance on the Waiheke Boating Club hardstand, the Club again giving us very generous terms. Minor repairs were carried out, zinc anodes replaced and the bottom antifouled. She was re-launched on 18th November.
Mahurangi Regatta 2024
On 26th January we sailed to Mahurangi, with a stop at Tiri Tiri Matangi island on the way. On 27th we took part in the regatta, completing the course, and the prizegiving ashore. During the passage back the next day we were enveloped in fog, a real-life exercise in navigation!
Thank You Sail
On 6th February we sailed to Motuihe Island in company with the catamaran “Flying Carpet” with supporters on both boats, and anchored for a shared lunch, swimming, and a walk ashore. A most enjoyable day out.
First Auckland Wooden Boat Festival, 1 – 3 March.
We were given a prime berth, as a rare example of a former working sailboat, among some 70 other classic craft afloat. This was a huge success; volunteer crew manned the ship, dressed overall with code flags, we invited the public aboard and showed them around. There was an atmosphere of enthusiasm, friendship, and cooperation. The seminar on the future of classic boats was a valuable exchange of information and ideas.
Fundraiser painting by David Barker
A total of 60 numbered and signed prints were sold. The original oil painting was exhibited at the Festival, and the draw for the winning number was held on 14th March, supervised by Gillian Reeve, JP. The winner was Craig Anderson, print number 22.
Boat Gear Jumble Sale
This was held on 21st October at the Boating Club. We raised $2,300 and ended with a chest full of gear and a pile of sails for next time! Many thanks to the volunteers.
The ¼-ton yacht “Crac-a-jac” which had been donated to the trust was eventually sold for $5,000 profit, with considerable effort involved. This has given us sufficient funds for now.
Looking ahead
Over winter several of our more experienced sailors are going overseas, leaving us short-handed. We plan to lay Kate up on her mooring and work on maintenance to keep her in good condition. Then we will be able to take small groups such as Sea Scouts out free for day sails.
Meanwhile she can be used as a floating classroom for nautical studies.
Bernard Rhodes, manager / Trustee.