Sailing Leap Frog

Frog Adventures over Easter

2011-04-27T07:59:00.004+10:00

Leapfrog, had become a wee bit mouldy, from the humidity up here, and a lack of use, due to a lack of time. Easter saw the perfect opportunity for a sail and therefore a demould and clean-up, she cleaned up very well and was soon the sparkling frog again.

We sailed in convoy with Max on "Murphys Law" with his crew Nick and Brian out to Green Island, it picked up to a good 20 knot breeze, south east, so we had a nice tight reach out to the island. It was a bit bumpy, but definatley bearable and great to be on the water. The snorkeling was OK, lots of big fish, turtles, rays, but he coral fairly bleached and depleted from a combination of tourism and cyclone Yasi.

Gin and Tonics saw the first night in, accompanied by gourmet cheeses, dips crackers and chitter chatter.

Easter Sunday, Brian the Easter Bunny delivered some eggs, and then we went and explored the Island, very touristy and boat loads of daytrippers constantly coming in.

Max and crew decided to head back to Cairns, and Scott and I decided to go to Mission Bay and get some protection from the now 25 knot south easter, was a hard on the nose sail, but we got there in the end - no swimming here as crocodiles inhabit Mission Bay, relaxing, reading, cooking sausages on the BBQ. A strong wind warning was warned for the next day, so we headed back to Cairns, it was about 25-30 knots so a hard sail, but good old Leapfrog handled the conditions well.

Post cyclone Yasi

2011-02-28T20:56:00.006+11:00

Hi All,

(this is a photo from BOM which give you a sense of the size of this thing...)

i guess that you know that we are fine and dandy. But the impact in my old home town of Tully, and where my parents live in south mission beach has been "full on".. we went to visit the parents the other day, see some photos from that trip...

on the way to mission beach

CYCLONE ALERT

2011-02-01T21:11:00.003+11:00

Just letting you all know that the frog is up the river as is Max keens Boat, we are all ok here, but its a bit stressful.

Time for a cyclone PARTY

Sailing on Leap Frog

Leapfrog - The floating Kombi

2011-01-07T15:53:00.012+11:00

Scott skipperd on departing the Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron, and Tony was Chauffered on the Frog, Leapfrog has become a floating Kombi, and has embraced her new adventures in FNQ. As the sensational news reported Cyclone Tasha hit just south of Cairns on Christmas morning. There was no evidence of even a deck chair moving on the balcony, or a leaf falling from a tree in Whitfield - it was wet though, so a drive just south of Cairns we found the Mulgrave River at Gordonvale in full flood - what once was a picnic park toilet bloke etc was gone - under water - we drove to Josephine Falls and WOW what a falls it was - gushing like a mad thing. There were some banana trees down and some minor flooding o the highway - in fact it was cut off, but in gerneral all was OK.

After monitoring the weather, and checking the Frog Scott and I decided to set sail on the 27th, and head south with the predicted N/E winds - planning to get as far as Hinchinbrook Island.

Leaving late in the day - we made for Fitzroy Island - and being after dark on arrival threw down the pick amongst the moorings and set for a rolly night sleep.

Waking early the next morning and wanting to get south, we had a big sail on the nose to Mourilyan Harbour - the predicted northelies were now southerlies - 10 hours later we arrived through down the pick. Beautiful spot, very calm and sheltered harbour.

Then onto the North Barnard group, a quick sail - 3 or 4 hours and we were on Kent Island, next to Jessie Island, it was a great spot, and a part a few day trippers we were the only ones there - a deserted Island paradise. The snorkeling was OK lots of fish, but coral a bit on the biege side.

Then it was New Years Eve so we set sail for Dunk Island, and checked into the resort for a much appreciated comfy bed, some fine food, ice cold drinks, and live music - it was expensive but great. The weather turned nasty so we sat out the storm on Dunk Island.

The weather wasn't looking great, so decided to head north again in the predictedd southerlies, that were now northerlies, we sailed to Mourilyan Harbour to sit and wait for high tide and go up the Johnstone River in Innisfail, although we slept in and missed the high tide - now saved for the next adventure.

So headed straight for High Island in the Franklin group and got a doozy of a storm on the way, lightning is scary when you are the only thing in the middle of the ocean.

High Island had a mooring so we picked her up, and sat there for the night - crocodiles were a problem here so only quick swims.

Back to Fitzroy Island - beautiful day - great snorkeling, lots of fish and good coral for Island coral.

And home again - what an adventure was had. If anyone would like to donate to the bigger faster yacht fund - please forward the appropriate funds to the "Frog Sailing Appeal".

Sandy Cay - Arlington Reef Trip

2010-12-06T08:43:00.018+11:00

The first adventure to the reef on Leapfrog, nothing short of amazing.
We left Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron on Thursday night after a long day of Tony cleaning the mould and noodles off the boat and packing and preparing for our adventure - at approx 32 degrees and 80% humidity, Tony sweated off about 5kg in preperations.
Scott finished work a quick dash to the bottlo and some last minute supplies from home, we set for the yacht club, a couple of glasses of red and dinner with Maxwell we set off down the channel and out to Mission Bay.

After a celebratory scotch we set down for an early night. Waking early On Friday to a pod of Dugongs swimming close by the boat, we had some coffee and fruit and setting sail we passed Green Island - to be explored another day.

And then on to Sandy Cay which is in the middle of Michealmas and Arlington Reef, very similar to the below picture - we were the only boat there on Friday night and picked up a National Parks mooring.

We sat here for two days, snorkeling, swimming, reading, sleeping, eating and the occasional scotch on the rocks - it was pure magic.

It was hot - humid - we need to work out better airflow - we need more room for guests to share this wonderful place - maybe we'll sell the lovely frog - and go for something with a bit more room and airconditioning - am I dreaming - slap- slap - wake up - I'm awake - still dreaming though.

LeapFrog in Cairns

2010-11-29T18:40:00.003+11:00

Leapfrog has reached Cairns, thanks to Chris and his crew, she is now sitting on a pile berth in Smiths Creek - Trinity Inlet for the moment. We have had two sails on her one too Double Island for a picnic, which took 4 hour to get too and 8 hours to get home. And another sail just up Trinity Inlet and back. This weekend we hope to go out to the reef and anchor overnight, or maybe Fitzroy Island - weather dependant - lots to explore but everywhere at least 1 day if not 2 days sail away.

The frog is In Hinchinbrook Island

2010-10-18T20:20:00.004+11:00

Hello All, Chris has been a slack bastard for a while so i thought i would let you all know that chris is on Hinchinbrook Island. He is travelling to Cairns tonight to stay for a couple of days then weather dependent Scott and Chris will return to collect the frog and sail her home to cairns over 4 days this weekend.

Well done Chris, and Stevo we miss you..

Scott

Sailing on Leap Frog

Middle Percy Island

2010-09-10T13:07:00.002+10:00

Middle Percy Island has been a highlight so far on the trip. We stayed in West bay where the A-Frame is which is a structure for crusing sailors to hang out. We had a goat stew there and ended up helping out building a new fence for hte permaculture setup at the homestead. The Island is rich in History and was an amazing experience to see how you can live in a self sufficient mannor. The Island has had some ongoing land tenure issues but hopefully they will be able to save the goats from destruction!
From Middle Percy island we went to Scawfald, Keswick, Brampton - the first resort we have been asked to leave from... and then onto Airlie Beach.

South Percy Island

2010-09-10T12:56:00.002+10:00

We hiked up to the top of South Percy island through dense undergrowth and many weeds (which have been a hige problem since it was declared a National Park and all of the goats killed). The picture from the top shows Middle Percy Island.

Life on Passage

2010-09-10T12:29:00.002+10:00

This sequence of photos shows what it is like when you have been out to sea for about a day and a half. The first is of the sunrise to the east, with Cookie the navigator doing the navigation, and with the Percy Islands to the north, Skippy is steering (and overlooking the dirty dishes) while steve is asleep down stairs off watch after having the 2am to 4am graveyard shift... a beautiful passage.

Cruising under the Kiwi

2010-09-10T12:19:00.002+10:00

From Musgrave we had the Kite up for about 36hrs strait which was wonderful we were on the way to Middle Percy Island (MPI) which is about 170nm. As you can see from this photo we were using the one sail policy for this leg!

Murphy

2010-09-10T12:09:00.002+10:00

While in the beautiful city of Bundaberg we managed to meet up with a lepricorn who was selling cheap bikes, we were tricked out of our $45 and had the handle bars, brakes and rear wheel fall off within the first 10km, luckly being able to use a hammer and a shifter we were able to get Murphy up and running in a safe enough manner. We now have wheels on the boat, combined with a piece of rope and a skateboard we can now travel around on land in style and with speed. This picture is of Murphy strapped to the back of the Frog on the way out of the Burnett river. From here it was a 60mn sail to a coral cay called Lady Musgrave. It is one of only a few cays with a navigatable lagoon, which meant that at low tide we had full protection from the swell (at high tide it was like being anchored in the middle of the ocean, an amazing anchorage and a fantastic first taste of the reef, we stayed for a few days before deciding that we should head further north...

The Rum Factory!

2010-09-10T11:59:00.002+10:00

While in Bundaberg we went on a factory tour of the Rum factory, which is right by the river. There were millions of liters or rum (they have to store it in oak barrels for at least 2 years before it can be sold). It was good to see the home of Australian Rum, we did have to be carefull to watch out for Drop Bears as they have a bit of an issue at the factory!

Topsy Enhancment

2010-09-10T11:52:00.000+10:00

In Bundaberg It was decided that due to the next stop being a coral lagoon - Lady Musgrave- that Turby being all inflatable my not mix so well with the sharp coral so we tested the outboard on Topsy... when the mighty 4hp Suzuki was lowered onto the transom the flex could be seen and the cracking heard, and this was before we even tried to start the motor, so some modifications were necessary. Luckly we were anchored in the Burnett river right in the middle of town and there were free powerpoints by the bbq's, we we packed up the grinder and glassing gear and let loose on Topsy. As can be seen the transom was reinforced with racing carbon fiber!!! Success we can now use the outboard on Topsy (all be it very carefully)!!!

Jake's Wake

2010-09-10T11:44:00.001+10:00

Mud Crab!

2010-09-10T11:35:00.001+10:00

Rubber Tramps in Turby at Coochimuddlo

2010-09-10T11:26:00.001+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog

Prop In Sydney before the slipping

2010-09-10T11:18:00.002+10:00

All the growth on the prop caused the engine to overheat and blow LOTS of black smoke, luckly with a good scrape followed by a few coats of paint while on the slip and we were back in business over 1000nm later and the paint is still good, also the play in the stern bearing does not seem to have worsened at all(great success!!!)

Fuel System Sydney

2010-09-10T11:03:00.004+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog
We have been out of range for a while and have saftly landed in Airlie Beach!!! The photos are of all parts of the journy!

That black stuff explains why the engine would not run...

2010-08-12T06:12:00.005+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog

Inside the Sandy Straits

We are currently laying at anchor in a pleasant and relatively sheltered cove known as Coonoongwa Creek. We are restricted in our movements along this stretch by the tidal flow, which can reach such magnitudes as to produce rapid like conditions in some parts. Since our experience in the Broadwater, extra precautions have been taken to try and reduce the risk of another grounding. This including the banning of Captain Ahab’s recommendations of early morning bar crossings being decided on the basis of his own internal calendar.

Yesterday Cloudbreaker and Ahab ventured on an expedition ashore, which turned from an interesting exploration of some new and different terrain on the wilderness of a sand mass we have named Fraser Island, to a somewhat frightening ordeal as our worries were confirmed that the strange giant man eating lizards, which the rubber tramps warned us about, really do exist. As fearful as these creatures appear to be they have captured the curiosity of this author. I have decided to invest my efforts into gaining as much knowledge as I am able about these antediluvian creatures, perhaps even domesticate one as a live aboard pet for the Frog. Rest assured the capture of Moby Dick for our captain remains top priority; however this is definitely a secondary objective of great interest and one which may be even more beneficial to the progression of our more civilized Southern provinces.

One even more concerning aspect is the fact that our good captain has misplaced his stockings and trousers. He takes no shame in parading around in the cockpit and on the poopdeck (taking the names of these in a far to literal context) in nerry more than his birthday suit and perhaps a rain jacket if we are lucky enough to be in the midst of some precipitation. There has been much protest from the crew on this matter, with no success thus far. Evidence of this behaviour has been attached to this entry in the pre-emptive idea that if steps have to be taken to stop this conduct there will be some official record of events. I hope I gain your support regarding this issue.

Gratuitous nudity aside, we are about to prepare ourselves and the Frog for a night of instrument aided celestial navigation. This next leg to the northern end of Fraser Island could be the most dangerous to date: Will The Frog and Her crew be able to see in the night? Or will all aboard be blinded by Captain Ahab’s’ full moon? Check here soon to find out.
Cloudbreaker signing out.

Back to sea

2010-08-09T18:53:00.002+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog
We have just arrived in the Sandy Straits (the inside of fraser island) after departing Peel Island on Morton bay at about 11am yesterday. We had head winds most of the way however looking at the weather it was definatly the best option. The Wide bay bar was an easy crossing however in a blow would be really nasty (there were breakers over 2 miles out to sea) this part of the coast is really senic with lots of sand... Skippy our auto pilot did a good job of much of the steering on this 110nm leg of the journy as there were only two of us onboard.
Chris

Inland Adventures

2010-08-08T17:09:00.002+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog

Correspondence has been recently received about concern for the lack of updates from the courageous crew of the S. V. Leapfrog. I shall firstly allay all fears for the safety of the ship and her crew and secondly apologise for the delay in regularly scheduled updates to those avidly following these adventures.

The last entry had our crew safely anchored at Jacobs well after successfully battling the horrendous conditions throughout the Broadwater. Much has happened since that entry, however as I am sure you can all imagine the high paced life of cruising the Eastern Coastline has left the crew of The Frog little spare time, however since we have just departed Manly under way to our next segment of travel to The Great Sandy Straits and the inside of Frasier Island a somewhat welcome break in the weather has allowed time for such essential tasks as these.

From Jacobs Well, The Frog was safely and uneventfully navigated to a fabled safe anchorage known as Coochiemudlo Island. After the tumultuous Broadwater passage The S. V. was contented to sit peacefully at anchor allowing her ragged crew some time for shore leave. Also welcomed was a visit by two old friends, travellers themselves, their lifestyle of being rubber tramps (named so because they choose to hoof around the country on rubber wheels instead of by the breath of the wind, not any other reason) meant that Caroline and Chriso were able to fix our position and locate us with the use of modern technology, our radio telephones, and a wonderful afternoon and evening was enjoyed by all, made even more remarkable still by the crab and mushroom soup made from the capture of The Frogs first mud crab. It is the belief of this crew member that nobody present will ever forget the visit that the Moon Goddess bestowed upon us that evening in the form of a magical rising display. Or the sight of the beach bonfire being swallowed by a wave as we departed the shore in Topsy & Turvey.

The next morning it was decided that the most effective way to gain information from the local inhabitancies regarding any knowledge they may be able to share with us, in helping achieve Captain Ahab’s search, would be to slit up in to two separate parties. The good captain led his expedition inland, utilising the rubber tramps mode of transport. Cloudbreaker and Chong ventured on foot and Iron horse into the concrete jungle known to the locals as Brisbane, and more specifically to the region known as The Wild West end. The indigenous creatures here were covered in all sorts of tribal piercings and inked skin. The initial intimidation was soon abated by the locating of a welcoming tavern which provided refreshing ales and surprisingly intelligent conversation; given the fact that there is a direct correlation in increasing latitudes and decreasing cranial capacity, as proved in the 1994 Study conducted by Dr. David Boon of the Pairhead University, Tasmania. A night of free boarding was also found at the home of one of the kind souls we met at the establishment known as ‘The JOYnt’. Although enjoyable and bountiful in many respects, the two explorers were not able to gain any information on the whereabouts of Moby Dick or in fact how to catch her. The locals here being more adept at river based endeavours than those experienced out in the might of the Great Pacific Ocean.

Meanwhile, Captain Ahab was venturing inland and had stumbled upon a great tribal ritual where tens of thousands of people flocked to pay homage to the skill and brilliance of individuals’ ability to create noise out of timber, string and metallic tools. He returned with tales of how hundreds, possibly dozens of revellers made strange movements to the sounds being generated by the individuals on the stages. He told us that they called this ritual The Splendour of the Grass. It sounds to this observer that the people at this ritual had had a little too much of this ‘splendid grass’.

Once The Ship and Her crew were once again reunited and no new information about Moby Dick could be established, The Frog was taken slightly farther North under the guise of Cloudbreaker and Chong. Captain Ahab had somehow commandeered the rubber tramps transportation device, mastered its trickery and gained the ability to control it (sometimes a harrowing experience for any poor fool who may end up as a passenger). Although terrifying this was useful to the voyage by providing a means of rapid inland transport and for provisioning the vessel with plenty of bully beef and hard tack for the crew on this current leg.

In fact we were most fortuitous for this transport at this stage of our journey. At this time our valued crewman Chong was in need of being airlifted back to civilization, less he suffer incredibly until dead. The poor fellow has had a terrible affliction placed upon him from birth; his illness is unnoticeable to the casual observer, but if left un-medicated can result in massive haemorrhaging to the eyeballs, foul odour to be exuded from glands and eventually the inversion and expulsion through the mouth of the poor sufferers’ lungs. It is known in medical fields as Terrible Haemorrhaging Condition & Withdrawal. We were able to reach this med-evac in time, and I am pleased to let you all know that Crewman Chong was able to reach medication and is recovering comfortably back in the lands of the civilised South.

Around 48 hours before departure the Rubber Tramps reappeared to reclaim their transportation. At first he was reluctant to give away his prize, but Captain Ahab eventually succumbed to the retuned travellers’ requests. They then regaled all with stories from the land to the North into which we now venture. Apparently they observed, killed and devoured giant lizards with huge teeth, just one new concern brought to light by these travellers’ tales.

So now Captain Ahab and Cloudbreaker venture farther still, we have recruited a new counterpart for our current leg. He may have but one working arm, but that arm is strong and true. Even as I write this our new Master Helmsman, Skippy, guides the powerful beauty of The S. V. Leapfrog seamlessly through the waters, which appear to be clearing as the sky above, Soon we shall be able to penetrate the ocean with our eyes and underwater apparatus, then it won’t be long before we will find and claim our goal and Achieve the dream of our dear Captain Ahab!

Until next time
Cloudbreaker signing out

2010-07-28T15:07:00.002+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog
When we last left you one of our favoured crew members had been lost, and we were preparing ourselves for one of the most deceptively treacherous and savage regions we shall most likely encounter on our expedition.

The mighty broadwater has delivered to us some polar experiences. the mighty SV Leapfrog slipped silently betwix the becalmed banks of the peaceful stretch of water, lulling her crew into a dreamlike consciousness state where under the gaze of the moon and lite drizzle of life nectar the evening was spent. In anticipation of the importance of the next days navigational difficulty the great Captain Ahab once again bunkered earlier than the rest of the crew, this decision proved to be of great importance as if the captain had had less rest then a disaster more unimaginable may have occurred.

As the evening before had done the beauty of the Broadwater had all the crew of The Frog entranced, that was until a stretch was reached where the crew had been warned to be wary, the sky went dark, the surface of the water trembled and the captain quailed, the crew began to cry out in fear of unknown as somehow The Frog inexplicably mounted in pace massive eddies appeared and giant mountains of water sprung randomly from all quarters and in an instant all seemed lost for The Frog and her courageous crew as a deathly crunch was heard and felt throughout the bones of the ship and Leapfrog ground violently to a halt.

Shock, as quickly as it was upon the crew was replaced by dashing action; Captain Ahab handed the helm to Cloudbreaker and dashed for the life raft initially the crew observed this as being a Captain abandoning his post. It was quickly understood that it was not a display of cowardice but instead great courage, as they great power of the 4 hoarse powed Suzuki fired into action and Ahab motored abeam of The Frog he called to crewman Chong; Chongs lightning reactions to swing out on the boom topper and deliver it into Ahabs waiting grip was the only reason the mighty vessel is still afloat today, using all four mighty stallions, Turvey was able to keep a steady lean on its larger counterpart and coupled with the gutsy bowls of The Frogs own yanmah deeper waters were inevidably found.

The excitement of the crew was short lived however as the seductress of the Broad water was not finished with our heroic bunch. Ahab and Turvey surged ahead in an endeavour to mark a safe passage for The Frog with her deeper draught to follow. However in such torrential conditions which had set in the two vessels became separated and with nowhere to go but forward The Frog ventured cautiously on. Just as the two vessels were once again within sight of each other, again a most powerful squall ruptured the crews world. Whirl pools surrounded both boats and The Frog was once again stalled in her path. The crew and captain tried again to repeat their successful endeavours of the last times grounding, however this time the Broadwater sirens had completed their task and the SV Leapfrog was hard aground, sore sorry and soggy crew aboard her.

Full faith in the captain had been placed with the knowledge that he was surpassed by no other in the world when observing the movements of the tidal motions of the water, and once again in this case his interpretation of the tide times had indeed been correct. It was in fact the serendipitous chance that his knowledge of what date it in fact is, does not match his tide charting abilities. Somewhere since the undertaking of this voyage our courageous captain has misplaced exactly one week and had ordered the vessel to be skippered through such waters several hours before the more sensible times of high water! Saying that "had we been a week earlier navigation would have been fine" (Quote- The Captain)

This slight miscalculation was dually realised and although by this stage all on board had broken into the grog supplies in anticipation of an extended wait The Frog, in her own sublime manner swung tenderly on her anchor and was accordingly tended to by the crew and guided further down river, now bobing peacefully and sound in the blue of safe anchorage. Captain Ahab unconscious below, from excess or embarrassment or perhaps both. Either way little consolation for his missed opportunity, for just this afternoon this crew member witnessed the rare event of seeing a manatee or in nautical terms, the sea cow.
Could this be a prelude to the answer to Ahabs prayers? It is folk lore that the sea cow can often precede a sighting of the fabled Moby Dick. Return here to find out.

Until next time this is Cloudbreaker signing out.

2010-07-26T10:03:00.003+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog
As you may be able to guess there is some disjointedness murmuring within the mind of the Great Captain Ahab (Chris Warren), it is true that there are some minor mechanical concerns it is my belief that he is more troubled over the loss of one of our original crew members. James, better known on this vessel as Cheech, has today been lost; swept over the side of the mighty Leapfrog by a surge of unimaginable magnitude and was last seen sliding into a misty haze drifting towards Brisbane. He has left behind the fondest memories for those who survive him and any replacement crew stand very little chance of being able to surpass what such a great seaman brought with him to this vessel. Lest we forget, but forward we must go. And that is what we will be doing, even with an underhanded amount of crew the Mighty SV Leapfrog will surge forth into the uncharted waters of the north, battling beasties and boaties in the continued search for Captain Ahab in his quest to land the fabled Great White Whale! will he be able to conquer his dream? what challenges lay in store for The Leapfrog? check here regularly to find out.
This is Cloudbreaker signing out

Yanmar are a bunch of assholes

2010-07-26T09:55:00.002+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog
Today is the day that we are going in search of a kit for the fuel lift pump, unfortunatly the original manafactures have decided that you should not service the pump but will sell you a whole new unit, not for us off to the auto stores in search of a seal kit to fix the problem.
The The Gold Coast has been fun and good to catch up with family and friends. The weather has been a little cold however so we will be heading further north this week
Chris

Marine Stadium

2010-07-22T12:14:00.001+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog

After a night of heavy reaching and running in up to about 25 Knots the Leaf frog was doing speeds over the ground of 6-8 knots and at times up to 10 down waves the boat is performing well above our expectations and have had a good quick trip. During the trip we saw heaps of whales, some a little to close for comfort with a whale swimming right under us. There were birds and dolphins along the way and we were lucky to pick up a Bonnito on the way which made for another nice meal. The Gold Coast seaway was entered at about 11:30 on Wednesday morning after almost 3 days at sea. We motored around the corner to an anchorage called Marine Stadium just next to seaworld. We then spend day drying the boat and checking out the Yacht club facilities at Southport. The plan is to stay in the goldcoast for the weekend.

Out at Sea

2010-07-22T11:45:00.002+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog

Mid Passage from Port Mac to Southport
Flying under the evil Kiwi at last – the breeze moderated and we were able to fly the Kite which was great! It has a picture of a Kiwi on it with blood dripping from its claws and blood drip eyes all in red! (Leapfrog was built in NZ of Kauri Ply in the early 60’s based on a Griffin design) The boat has been going quicker than expected and we have had great reaching and running conditions so far so when there was a prediction of no wind and then wind from the North we decided that we should pull in...
A lovely stop in Port Macquarie, we stayed right in the middle of town, as we were told later by the marina guy we had anchored right next to the channel in right near the park. The best way to describe the day in port which started on Sunday at about 9 am when we set anchor after a couple of nights at sea. We enjoyed a great Sunday session which involved lost phones wallets and received comments on the Jolly roger which we have flying. A quick restock of supplies more ice. VB and bread – the main meals are still going strong thanks Mum’s. The bar crossing was done on slack tide on Sunday at the morning low and on Monday on the afternoon high – there was fair bit of current during the middle of the tide. We have has a few running repairs the traveller and hopefully fixed a minor diesel leak. Packing is starting to take less time as we cram all of our stuff onto the vessel. Its Raining now and James and I start our watch 6pm Monday night watchwhich is in less than half an hour It would be nice to stay down below however this will have to be done by Steve and Troy for the next 3 hours.

2010-07-17T09:01:00.005+10:00

Sailing on Leap Frog
We have finally departed! After much preparation we managed to sneak away from the dock very late on Thursday (3am) and went and stayed the night in Double Bay. Currently Leapfrog is home to Troy, James, Steve and Chris - along with more stuff than I ever thought was possible to fit into a 31ft boat! - we are down a little on the water line... After a good rest we then realised that half a jar of coffee was just not enough... so up to Edgecliff on the first of may boat to shop missions. We managed to clear the heads at about 16:00 and turned left. The breeze has been about 15 knots from the SW overnight with about 1-1.5m swell (it was a little variable overnight).It is now 0900 Saturday and we are currently about 5 miles from Port Stephens so we have been making good time with speeds over the ground from 5-7 knots. The weather is looking like it will go light tonight however we are going to push on north. The boys have been having a good time with plenty of steering to keep us all amused all are in good spirits and are looking forward to some warmer weather!
Chris

The Frog gets ready to head North

2010-06-21T16:56:00.004+10:00

Chris, Stevo, James and Troy depart sydney 16th of July on a great adventure. of the frog all loaded up... well done boys safe voyaging

S&T

i All,

Chris and Stevo are getting the Frog ready to head north. Chris will be managing the blog to keep us up with his adventure, so watch this space..

Scott and Tony

Scott in his Sydney to Hobart Gear

2009-12-07T13:33:00.003+11:00

We have geared Scott up to keep him warm and dry and visible should he go overboard

Latest Frog Results

2009-12-07T09:47:00.009+11:00

RANSA Results 27/11/2009 - DNF - This race showed all seasons in one day - we had a crew of Scott, Tony, Ben, Dave, Burner, and Lee - we started off on a leisurley cruise past the opera house and harbour bridge with a nice gentle 10-15 knots, rounded Fort Denison into about 20-25 knots, then went for the start line - it rained as we cruised up the harbour to our mark, then light rain and then sunshine, light wind then strong wind almost pitch poling us - then as we raced down to the finish line the wind died we were 50 metres from the line and couldn't move - the start boat packed up in front of us and left - so DID NOT FINISH.

RANSA 4/12/2009 - Quiet a different story - Crew Scott, Tony, Anthony and Peter M, we had a good start and consistent winds - we kept up within the middle of the fleet - we finsihed 2nd

ASCC 6/12/2009 - Quiet a nice wind - Crew Scott, Tony, Andrew, Emma, Cartier, and Peter V, we had a nice wind and the Frog powered along, dodging a very busy harbour with fleets of racing boats, ferries, jet boats, and gin palaces - we raced well until confusion at the last mark when we had missed the finish line into the wrong bay - we still won 1st for Leapfrog.

Latest Frog News

2009-11-23T11:12:00.005+11:00

From the last news Leapfrog has had some intersting times with the RANSA twilights.

The 6/11/2009 dually captained by Jo and Tony with crew Ant, Justine and Andrew we had a good start and some nice wind, we kept up with the fleet and managed 14th from 16 starters - very good for first time race captains.

The 13/11/2009 Leapfrog DNS (Did not start).

The 20/11/2009 Captained by Scott with crew Tony, Ben, Dave, Burner and Lee we had 4 seasons in one race, sun, rain, strong wind, no wind, and wind changing directions, we raced quiet well, and then 100 meters from the finish line the wind completely died. We all huffed and puffed but to no avail - we could not move - the finish signal sounded - therefore a DNF (Did not finish).

ASCC races with pics above

Race 4 - 8/11/09 - Captained by Tony with crew Scott, Ben, Andrew, Sammy and Peter, a good race day with the occasional shower and some nice winds - a confusing start with boats going off in opposite directions accross the start line, some nice long runs and a nice onboard picnic back on the mooring - 3rd out of 5 boats.

Race 5 - 22/11/2009 DNS

The Leapfrog crew also wishes Captain Scott and exhilerating and safe trip on the Sydney to Hobart - get ready Froggers the Leapfrog may be a contender in the 2010 Rolex Cup.

Race Results RANSA

2009-11-02T15:56:00.004+11:00

The first race of the season went well, considering we were 6 minutes late over the start line - Leapfrog and crew still managed 5th out of 16 starters.

The new number 2 headsail worked a dream, despite having no window as promised - so we still can't see where we are going.

The new winches and sheets are a dream with the tacking now doen to a fine art form

Well done crew

Leap Frog Gearing up for a hot summer season

2009-10-22T13:55:00.011+11:00

Leap Frog and Crew have been getting some good results in the ASCC series

Race 1 - 1st

Race 2- 1st

Race 3 - 2nd

Mostly all have by now completed the crew list and your sailing availability - I tell you it has been like pulling teeth to get the information out of the froggers - hop to it froggers.

Thankyou though - the crew list is pretty much set - if your down to race and can't please give as much notice - so we can get stand by crew in. WE DONT HAVE THE TIME OR ENERGY TO CHASE YOU - please help us by letting us know any changes.

RANSA twilights start in a fortnight on the 30th September Scott, Tony, Ben, Robbo, Jo and Greg.

If you don't have a copy of the crew list let me know.

Race 1 ASCC Spring Series

2009-09-12T09:44:00.003+10:00

The first race was crewed by Tony, Andrew, Carolyn, Emma and Scott. The new winches worked beautifully, as did the crew. the wind gusted to 17knots and the frog performe beautifully under these conditions.

The provision results suggest we won the first race, by 8 minutes on handicap. Well done team !!!

The Frog made over and relaunched

2009-09-03T19:54:00.016+10:00

It has been a wee while, the Froggers have been in hibernation and having a long hard rest from about three years of racing, social sailing and of course countless hours of maintenance and lots of dips into the big hole in the sea.

After 6 months Scott, Tony, Ben and Dave visited the Frog expecting a mould ridden, half sunk mess, but bless her she has kept only an inch of water in the bilge, and a little mould that a quick squirt of exit mould has fixed, she leapt into action and started on the first ignition switch.

Putt, putt, putt she roared like a ocean bound VW Kombi, raring to go on the next adventure. Captain Scott and crew were very impressed.

The love of The Frog has returned and with spring approaching and now here, The Frog still needed some TLC. Young Christopher met Scott along with Ben and Dave to climb the mast and take down the old furler and horrible big 140% head sail, which has continiously been against our side. A new forestay was ordered and the old head sail repaired so it could be hanked on. A new sail was also on order, a large number 2 with a window - this means crew.... no more on the bow looking for crash victims and calling starboard - it is fun calling starboard.... and we will still have the opportunity, but in the cockpit or on the new teak cruisers seat that will go accross the bow - thanks to crew Anth.

The Frog has been slipped and new antifoul applied. It was a fun, rewarding and yet challenging experience getting the Frog on the RANSA slip. Young Caroline, the trooper, was a legend and helped with the workings of the 1800's winch, and dived down into freezing cold water in her lingerie to see if the keel was straight, not to mention her cranking on the winch and her assistance in getting pizzas. Ben and Dave even got dirty and winched the greasy winch until they both broke out into a sweat. Tony rowed around in a dinghy making sure everything was right from the waterline and with Scott on board ensuring everyone was doing their job and stressing out a bit about the ropes and angle of the Frog on the slip - not to mention the RANSA Board of Directors meeting happening by our side and watching our somewhat errrr slick performance - it was entertaining to say the least.

The Frog eventually was winched into place - somewhat on a concerning angle - but stable, she was scraped back with Ben Dave and Scott while Tony and Caroline went for pizzas.

The next day Scott managed his academic affairs while painting anti foul onto Leapfrogs hull, Tony arrived around 6.00pm and there was no work to be done....homebound.

The next days Tony had forfeited a trip to Vanuatu to repaint the antifoul onto leapfrogs hull, hard antifoul the prop, fix the ding, and paint the topsides. Anth had a day off so came to the Frog and leant a very welcoming hand and chippy's advice - the evening progressed into a social event with Christine and Justine turning up in their ute to drop off Justines new yellow kayak, soon to follow where Kyles McGyles, Fee Fee La Rue, Scott, Jo and Greg and a lucious gourmet BBQ. proceeded

The next day Tony Baloney, Tony Toennails, Tone, Tones, and Tony went to the boat and finished the topsides and antifoul third coat around the waterline. Kerrie the grumpy old RANSA bastard came done and condemed everything we had done and screamed and yelled like a maddog - Tony just kept painting.

Then it was done - Leapfrog was to return to the water at 10.00pm on Friday night - Scott and Tony arrived to the RANSA oldies having a swinging 60's party - so was not a good time to relaunch the Frog, we left her there, on Tipsy Janets and Robins advice - secretly drying the paint for another day.

Scott and David from Byron returned on Saturday night and relaunched the Frog under grumpy old bastard Kerries supervision.

The following weekend saw the ordering of some new 40st two speed, self tailing winches, and a new forestay being hung - and again thanks to young Christopher who climbed the mast attached the mast to the head forestay connection - came down - went green - went home - and did young fella things. Scott and Tony stayed on and painted intergrip onto the decks.

The Frog will sail in the first race of the ASCC summer series this Sunday 6th September 2009

RANSA 2008/09 Twilight Series

2008-11-13T07:54:00.005+11:00

RANSA 1 - thanks to Janet, Val and the crew of the start boat.

Well the season has started again.

Race 1 - Leapfrog got a third place when a big southerly buster came thru and two boats lost their masts, while Higgy was sunk. All hands were safe and sound, but wet !

Race 2 - Leapfrog got 12th ( we are not very consistent so far this year).. the winds were very light and the race was shortened.

Crew meeting 13/11/2008 was well attended by the new seasons crew. The Pecking Duck, Beef and Blackbean and the juicy Omlette all got the thumbs up at the very classy Redfern Chinese Duck restaraunt. The wine certainly flowed until discussions became obscure, mottled and the brain somehow wanted to go on. A "Cock Sucking Cowboy" round brought in Kyles McGyles birthday, and proceeded to produce a few sore heads the following day. All in all it was a success with the crew now being very organised.

Race 3 - Leapfrog got 13th (becoming more conssitent) the winds were gusty, Dave went 3/4 overboard and knackered himself. Greg skilled up on foredeck duties with young Chris. Jo winched like a crazy cat with Dave, Tony acted as ballast, cleaner, barman, and vang operator. And Scott captained like a man possessed.

ASCC Spring Races

2008-10-26T11:50:00.010+11:00

Spring Racing on Leap Frog

ASCC Spring Race 1 DNS

ASCC Spring Race 2 1st place

ASCC Spring race 3 2nd place

ASCC Spring race 4 - Balmain regatta -results - anyone that can interpret the Balmain Regatta results please advise see www.balmainsailingclub.com/Racing/RacingResults/BalmainRegatta - Classic Yachts division A

ASCC Spring Race 5 3rd Place

Getting Ready - Bring on Spring

2008-08-12T16:09:00.010+10:00

Beautiful Whitehaven Beach

Skye anchored off Hook Island Resort

(Tongue Bay, Whitsunday Island)

As you may have gathered from the lack of recent posts, sailing has slipped down the priority list somewhat, due to work and house renovations (which seem to go on for ever !!! )... but the session is coming ....

RANSA races start at on the 31st Oct, while the ASCC races (the spring series) commences on the the 7th of September... We did ok last year but this year lets win the Spring and Summer series....

I am keen to develop our skills so we will running spinnakers in the forthcoming races, and training will be provided ...

The choice job is the bowperson ... working the pointy end of the boat..

... So if your keen let us know..

We need 5 people to manage the spinnaker so there will be lots of opportunity to learn and have fun..

Below and above are some pictures from our recent trip to the Whitsunday Islands, where we managed to have lot of rainy weather, gale force winds, and an Arm breakage ( courtesy of the high gloss titles in Arile Beach ).. Tony has mended well ...

Bring on the warm weather, see you out on the water...

Pittwater on Jeannua 29

2008-04-13T15:41:00.004+10:00

RANSA twilight series results

2008-04-13T11:29:00.004+10:00

RANSA twilight race series results for Leapfrog 2007/2008

Overall Series result for Leap frog 13/20

Race 1 - 2/11/2007 - Race abandoned
Race 2 - 9/11/2007 - DNF
Race 3 - 16/11/2007 - DNS
Race 4 - 23/11/2007 - DNS
Race 5 - 30/11/2007 - 7th of 15
Race 6 - 7/12/2007 - DNS
Race 7 - 14/12/2007 - DNF
Race 8 - 4/1/2008 - 11th of 14
Race 9 - 11/1/2008 - DNF
Race 10 - 18/1/2008 - DNR
Race 11 - 25/1/2008 - 1st of 19
Race 12 - 1/2/2oo8 - DNR
Race 13 - 8/2/2008 - 8th of 14
Race 14 - 15/2/2008 - Race abandonded
Race 15 - 22/2/2008 - 11th of 16
Race 16 - 29/2/2008 - 3rd of 11
Race 17 - 7/3/2008 - 1st of 15
Race 18 - 14/3/2008 - 3rd of 12

Latest Frog News

2008-01-28T08:47:00.000+11:00

There has been a bit of action on the Frog lately

RANSA RACE Crew, Scott, Tony, Ant and Ben. a good 15 - 20 knot breeze, and a clean bottom made for a good chance. We sailed well keeping amongst the fleet all race, on the downwind stretch to the finish post theer were about 30 - 40 yachts behind us, Jeez we thought must be another race. We crossed the line around 7.30pm a good time for us.

The count down 19 boats, 19 finishers - down to 10th we thought beauty in the top ten, down to 5th excellent we though in the top 5, 3rd, 2nd and 1st place LEAPFROG, we all screamed in deep chottly voices for joy

Australia Day

A raft up at Milk Beach with Pat Christine Jack and Harry and Harley the dog on Alysis there cavalier 32, and Scott Tony Justine aMonza, Julie and Brownie on LeapFrog we had a lovely day with wine beer and lots of food, swimming, fishing

Sunday 27th ASCC race Crew Scott Ben Dave Chris and Robert we await results

Monday 28th BBQ at Chinamans Beach with Scott Tony Ant Kyles McGyles and Kari, meeting , Sammy , Damien, Karen, Andy and Sophie on the beach.

Official Report

A beautiful dat with a westerly wind sent us up the harbour on broad reach, we sheltered in Chinamans Beach and met Sammy, Damien, Kazza, Andy and Sophia'

Sausages where bbq'd and the new bbq set got a try-out, it's a beauty thanks Castles Kris Kringle.

Presauteed onions by Kyles and Ant and some lovely pancakes were heated gently, Mighty Boy white and tomato sauce, followed by pavlova and lamingtons... all very Australian.

Many a swim and frolic in the lovely water, and a few bears, back on board the Frog the wind had swung to the North East and a broad reach home.

RANSA and ASCC results

2008-01-15T19:10:00.000+11:00

The Frog now has a nice clean bottom, Thanks to the boys at Empire Marina at Gladesville Bridge, and the new frog emblems in place, thanks to Fee fee La Rue. The new hatch is in, and we have identified where we are taking on water, due for repair this Saturday and a recarpet of the engine box, the engine is idling properly, thanks to the mechanic

Results

RANSA Friday 11th January - Crew Scott, Tony, Ant, Justine, Ben and Dave - withdrawn from race as taking on water, a broken d-shackle, and at the end of the day too much sail and an overpowered boat, and at 25knots we should have raced well but we stuffed it, although we did have fun having a few drinks at RANSA.

ASCC Sunday 13th January - crew Scott, Tony, Chris and Robert - 15 - 20knots, less sail taking on a bit of water, but all in all a great sail - we came 1st on handicap

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Leap Froggers

2008-01-07T20:25:00.001+11:00

Well I have been slack on the updates yes, but there has not been a lot to report!

Since the 18th November, there has been some races

RANSA

23rd November - DNR

30th November - 15th of 17

7th December - DNR

14th December - DNF

4th January - 11th 0f 14th

So not great results.

Good News is LeapFrog gets an antifoul on Wednesday, so she should slip through the waves more sleek now.
There has been some social sails, with Kari, Tony and Emma joining us for champagne sail.

There was a BBQ at Milk Beach with Chesy, Ben, Dave, Ant and Kylie, with Matty, Chris, Andy and some German girls joining us.

And there was the start to Sydney to Hobart cruise to See Chris and Sammy off on boat 51, they finished well and made the journey, Congratulations!!!

ASCC RACE START SAIL PASS

2007-11-22T18:51:00.000+11:00

Thanks again to Lauire for this video of Leapfrog sail pass

Leapfrog Under Spinnaker

2007-11-18T14:39:00.000+11:00

Sailing on Leap Frog: Under Spinnaker

Our race results for the ASCC are not great !!!

see the results at http://www.ascc.org.au/racinginfo/raceresults.pdf

Next ASCC race is on the 25th Nov..

http://www.sydsailor.com/ASCC/index.htm

See above link for more vidoes courtesy of Laurie......

RANSA Race 3

2007-11-16T12:18:00.000+11:00

RANSA Race 3 16/11/2007

Crew, Tony, Jo and Justine - Did not start as to lack of crew... see all the empty chairs

More pictures and Video's Including spinnaker sets see Lauries site

ASCC Race 4

2007-11-16T11:35:00.000+11:00

ASCC Race 4 - Sunday 11th November 2007

Crew -Scott, Ben, Dave, Chris, Robert, and Glen

This race went well apparently, but as I was not there I can't say exactley.

See the pics and videos and judge for yourself

RANSA Twilight Race 2

2007-11-10T08:47:00.000+11:00

RANSA Twilight Race 2 9/11/2007

Crew Scott, Tony, Ant, Ben, and Dave

With a newly serviced winch (thanks Bruno at Australian Winch Co.) the motor going again, an esky full of grog, some of Kyles McGyles crew cup cakes and a bar of chocolate, and the wind up at around 15 - 20 knots, we looked like we were in for a good race.

We paced the start line from a very empty harbour at 5.15pm to a harbour swarming with yachts by 5.45pm, we got off to a reasonable good start. The wind was at a funny angle, but we tacked and jibbed and spotted like pros, around the first mark at Clarke Island a boat next to us had its mast snap, and another boat lose its spreader, we thought we now had a chance out of the 16 starters, we were sure to get a place.

We kept up with the fleet up the harbour, Ben called a starboard, it was on for young and old. we rounded the mark up near Wedding Cake, readied the pole and headed on the home stretch, we were looking good. We got to Neilson park and the wind died but we were still moving, we rounded Shark Island - poled out, and headed toward the finish line, it was about 7.30pm the sun looked like it was still up behind the clouds, and the start boat was still there, we crossed the line about 7.45pm a got waved accross the line.

Leapfrog had raced well we thought. We went back to the mooring got in Mattys stealth dinghy "Puddles" (thanks Matty) and stealthed accross to RANSA clubhouse, it was packed to the rafters. After some overpriced wedges with sour cream and a few beers Janet finally called the race results.

Down came the count and we hadn't been called 3rd we thought, 2nd we thought, first we thought, but no we didn't even get a mention. We got a did not finish - the buggers must have had there shades on, it wasn't 8 o'clock, the sun hadn't set, whats the story - we do not know!

All in all was a good sail, thanks crew for a mighty effort and fun sail.

RANSA Twilight Race 1

2007-11-05T16:49:00.000+11:00

Friday 2nd November 2007 - RANSA Race 1

Crew - Scott, Tony, Ant, Jo, and Justine.

Was a rather wet and miserable day, and Captain Scott spent the day calling the race on and off, the skies cleared and contrary to the weather radar we set sail. With a broken winch, Justine coming down with the flu, and Jo with her keys locked in her car, the crew soldiered on and the crew winched, ballast, spotted and bar bitched to the start line, we had a good start.

We got to Clarke island a half hour into the race and noticed we were going backwards, and some boats where withdrawing from the race, the rain started to fall, and we the Leapfrog crew decided the RANSA bar was a better place to be. Down came the sails, and on went the Yanmar, putter, putter, spit spit we went, then, spit spit spit blurghhhh....... "Oh no", cried Scott "we have no motor", up went the headey and just a whisper of breeze blew us back to the mooring.... A very wet crew had a few ales at RANSA and learnt the whole race had been abandoned.

First Mate Tony has taken the journey to Smithfield and the winch is being serviced and repaired, the mechanic can't make it till next week, so pray for wind on Friday, or we go nowhere. same place, same time Leapfrog Crew.

Why there is a yacht place in Smithfield I do not know, it is almost in the Blue Mountains, although there was some good op shops up there!!!!!

ASCC Spring Race No 2

2007-10-16T17:19:00.000+10:00

ASCC Race No 2, Spring Series, Video Taken from Start Boat "Sampaguita" by Laurie

The Frog couldn't read the Tea - Towel Flags ( but we were close to the line, and we followed the fleet )

ASCC 2nd Race Spring Series

2007-10-15T09:46:00.000+10:00

ASCC Race 2 15/10/07

Crew Scott, Tony, and Chris

ASCC Race 2 welcomed new crew member Chris onboard. Chris was a great crew member with great sailing ability and enabled First mate Tony to relax and so a bit of champagne sailing.

It was a huge race with 3 starters. Leapfrog, Topknot and Antares with Laurie on his new start boat Sampaguita (formely Beryl).

The weather was a lovely sunny day and winds predicted light, but did pick up to about 18 knots in the afternoon.

Antares zommed off quickly out of site, and Leapfrog and Topknot toggled for 2nd position with Leapfrog leaping over in 2nd place with Topknot not to far behind. (Official results to come in)

LeapFrog Joins ASCC Spriing Series

2007-09-14T13:52:00.000+10:00

The ASCC Spring Series of sunday racing kicks off on Sunday 16th September at 11.55am with race No 1. The Leapfrog crew is excited to participate in this forthcoming series, and will be rostering crew on for the whole series. When Captain Scott is traveling as is his want, Apprentice Captain Tony ( OH my god !!! Not more racing !! ) will be ably supported by our wonderful boating companions.

For the first race, Scott will be sailing with Justine (She has reappeared after the big Boat festival and is keen to rejoin our little team), Ben ( our most recent regular crew mate), and Dave our newest crew member.

If you are keen to race this season, get in touch with Tony.

The calender for the races are available at the ASCC homepage.

http://www.ascc.org.au/

Leap Frog returns to Winter Series

2007-08-12T07:38:00.000+10:00

Leap Frog has returned and is back on the racing calender

Race 14 Saturday - 11th August 2007

Crew Scott, Tony, Ben and Dave - 25 degrees, blue skies, and winds forecast up to 35knots.

We reefed the sails, and headed out early to show Dave the ropes, and he picked it all up quiet well.... onya Dave! We had a good start, and a good run back up to Rose Bay East YA mark, apart the bloody pole it all went well, we rounded the mark and I think this where we lost the traveller and discovered it on the end of the boom - Shit says Scott, Tony Ben and Dave, Ben and Tony had too physically pull the boom in in 30 knot winds to rescue the traveller, we tacked back down the harbour through the plethora of marks RANSA had laid, and then back to Rose Bay East, Scott calls the bloody pole again, Tony and Ben got it set, than captain decides it should be on the other bloody side, Tony and Ben fight with the pole again, and bugger it breaks so we can't use......much to Tony's delight who hates the bloody pole, which seems ready to throw you off the boat at any second. All in all we had a good race, Ben sailed well, Dave learnt the ropes quickly, Scott helmed like a helmsman and Tony bitched and fought with the bloody pole, swearing never to race again.

6th Place out of 8, one boat who got disqualified, if not only for brown eyeing us and sledging us we may have not called there missed mark.

Race 13 Saturday Saturday 4th August 2007

Leapfrog did not race due to insufficient crew, Scott did some maintenance work instead

Race 12 Saturday 28/7/07

Crew - Scott, Tony, Ben, Jo

There was a fair wind and a westerley course, Leapfrog had a gear failure on the start line, and so were 13 minutes late over the line. This was a good race apart the bloody pole which causes no end of grief to the crew, and Jo got very wet on the foredeck. we had drinks and dolmadies and a couple of fags, it was a good day out....

Leap Frog scored 12th place from 14 starters

Race 11 Saturday 21/7/07

Crew - Scott, Ben, Jo, Greg

I don't know much about this race, due to an impromptue site inspection and wine tasting in the Hunter Valley.

Leapfrog scored 12th place from 12 starters

Leapfrog Crew On Holidays

2007-06-27T14:37:00.000+10:00

The Crew

Hi Crew mates and friends

As some of you will know Leapfrog is having a holiday while Captain Scott and Apprentice Captain Tony, Sammy, Chad, Kari, Ant, Kylie and Fee are on holiday in Vietnam.

Leapfrog will be sailing again after the 18th July 2007, when we will recommence our weekly adventures on the frog.

RANSA Winter Race 1 & ASCC Race 5

2007-05-06T09:39:00.000+10:00

Sunday 6th May 2007 - ASCC Race 5, Crew Captain Tony, First Mate Scott, Winch Wench Kyles McGyles, Winch Wench Ant, Ballast Bitch Glen, Bowboy Ben. Was a bit more wind for this race and with Captain Tony at the helm it was sure to be an interesting race. The Audi series was on and the harbour was packed with big spinnaker flying yachts, "holy shit" thought Captain Tony, but with the support of a damn good crew we successfully navigated through these fleets. The race was long with the wind between 10 - 15 knots, we had plenty of time to drink a carton of beer, and some bourbon and wine, while consuming Kyles McGyles crew cup cakes, and Bow Boy Bens crew Ham cheese and pickle sandwiches.

Well done crew. Captain Tony is coming out of the sailing closet. We came second accross the line out of 3 starters, but on handicap we may win - we await the results.

Saturday 5th May 2007 - RANSA Race 1, Crew Scott, Tony, Jo and Ben. After a very slow race start (29 minutes to cross the start line) the crew had had lunch and a few drinks before we crossed the start line.

Once we crossed the line the wind gradually picked up and the Frog leapt up the harbour to East Channel, were we turned the mark and our spinnaker went up, Jo and Tony gracefully raised the spinnaker with only minor hiccups and the Scott and Ben controlled the flying kiwi from the cockpit. We had a fun time flying the spinnaker, although lost ground while experimenting and learning.

The crew worked it hard down the harbour, we even raised a sweat. The Frog kept up with the fleet despite light winds and the slow start. Leap Frog scores 12th Place from 16 starters.

Well done Leap Frog crew

Renovating Leap Frog

2007-04-21T17:22:00.000+10:00

Frogs have very special skin! They don't just wear it, they drink and breathe through it. Frogs don't usually swallow water like we do. Instead they absorb most of the moisture they need through their skin. Not only that, but frogs also rely on getting extra oxygen (in addition to what they get from their lungs) from the water by absorbing it through their skin. Because frogs get oxygen through their skin when it's moist, they need to take care of their skin or they might suffocate. Sometimes you'll find frogs that are slimy. This is because the frog skin secretes a mucus that helps keep it moist. Even with the slimy skin, these frogs need to stay near water. Toads on the other hand have tougher skin that doesn't dry out as fast, so they can live farther from water than most frogs. In addition to jumping in water, frogs and toads can get moisture from dew, or they can burrow underground into moist soil. Frogs shed their skin regularly to keep it healthy. Some frogs shed their skin weekly, others as often as every day! This looks pretty yucky...they start to twist and turn and act like they have the hiccups. They do this to stretch themselves out of their old skin! Finally, the frog pulls the skin off over it's head, like a sweater, and then (this is gross) the frog EATS IT!!!! (EEEEEWWW!) http://allaboutfrogs.org/weird/general/skin.html

What do ya call a frog's favorite soda?
Croaka-Cola!

The Frog has had some more TLC she has new teak traveller (pictured). The pushpit has been repaired and resecured, some stornchons repaired. And the main salon totally painted ready for dressings. You can see the fine detail in the closeups.

Included are some photos of the slipping, which due to previous vodafone technicalities became incomprehensible and deemed impossible - but I worked it out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RANSA Race 15 16 17 18

2007-03-05T13:01:00.000+11:00

RANSA Race 18 - Crew Scott, Tony, Anth, Justine, Jo, Ben, and Greg With the wind up at the 20 knot mark and white caps on the harbour, it was the scene for a fast busy and hard race for the crew. Everyone was playing it hard and everyone was getting wet. Scott was helming like
salmon being persued by John West, Jo and Ben winched like Kylie Minogue performing locomotion, Justine, Greg, Ant and Tony performed fine ballast as if the were circus trapeze acts, along with bar duties for thirsty fish, and Tony and Anth alternating between spotting and calling like $2 shop spruikers with rests on the ballast for a drink.
Well done crew 2nd Place for our last race

RANSA Race 17 - Crew Scott, Tony, Anth, Justine, and Ben - Leap Frog and crew all revved up from such a winning streak, tried there damn hardest to get the frog to move in 5 knots of wind - this became one of the longest races in race history - luckily crewmen Justine brought some snacks and everybody seemed to bring beer - so lets look at this one as a social sail - Leap Frog struggled to the line but did not quiet make it - The start boat packed up and left with the Frog about 200 metres fromthe line LeapFrog scores DNF

RANSA Race 16 - Crew Scott, Tony, Ant, Sid and Ben LeapFrog and crew have scored another 1ST Place. The wind was up around 20knots and the Frog was in her element, she was leaning over and dipping her toerails into the harbour like a damsal on vacation in the Carribean, Captain Scott helmed like a tiny mackarel being hunted by a sea bass, Tony spotted and called a many a starboard like a eagle with a keen eye for a juicy grub, Ant and Sid winched like mini tornados, and Ben performed tight rope performance like ballast. The race was intense and all hand were on deck and there were a many a fine tuned call 'Go Down, Go Down" cried Tony 'We,re going hit, were going to hit' cried Tony - there was many a close call. The clubhouse beckoned after such an intense race and all crew did there best to support the RANSA bar, including Frank and his Dad Hans from Germany joing us for our victorious drinks.

RANSA race 15 was the final pointscoring race for the summer twilights, and although the frog missed the race as Captain Scott was in Broome and First Mate Tony was on his broom in Mona Vale. So no racing news this

week crew

RANSA Race 14

2007-03-05T12:34:00.000+11:00

RANSA Race 14 February 23 - Crew Scott, Jo, Anthony, Justine, and Sid - From all reports the crew sailed like troopers and handled the frog well with Jo keeping watch and hankering for a starboard call on the bow and Justine and Ant controlling the cockpit winches with minute precision while Sid performed ballast like a seal on an artic iceberg and Captain Scott helmed like a fish in pursuit of a tasty prawn.

Final result - 4th place - well done team

2007-02-20T17:51:00.000+11:00

Frogs are one of the best leapers on the planet! Did you know that frogs can launch themselves over 20 times their own length using those big strong legs of theirs? That would be like if you could jump 100 feet!
The average flea can jump up to 150 times its own length.A kangaroo can leap about 4 1/2 times it's length. Elephants can't jump at all!
As far as I know, the longest frog jump on record measured 33 feet 5.5 inches. It was made by a frog named Santjie at a frog derby held in South Africa.

Sunday sailing saw a sunny day and fine conditions for an spritley afternoon sail, and a good introduction to the pleasure/ stress/ strategy involved.

With a keen crew of Scarlet, Sophie, Sue, Mitchel, Steve, Scott and Tony. Everyone sailed extremely well, and everyone learning a few new

sailing tricks

RANSA racing on the Frog continued

2007-02-17T09:26:00.000+11:00

RANSA Race 13 16/2/07 - Crew Scott, Tony, Justine, Sophia and Syd. With Sophia ans Syd first time new crew. We thought we would take it easy and improve our handicap - we left the mooring early and did some practice tacks and runs, with sophia learning winch wenching under Justines instruction proved a winning combination, Tony taught Syd how to be ballast and use the Vang, and then Tony took position spotting on the bow, while Captain Scott helmed like a dolphin in pursuit of a tasty fish. We had a a few drinks and some lovely mini quiches catered by the lovely Justine who sponsors the Vinyl Lounge. There are unfortunatley no official snaps of this momentous race as the forecast was for storms and the old camera is not waterproof.
LeapFrog scores 1st Place
sail #5939 name LEAP FROG finish time19:22:16 handicap0.6417 place 1st

The Admirals Cup - RANSA Regatta

2007-02-15T17:59:00.000+11:00

LeapFrog will be entering the annual RANSA Regatta - The Admirals Cup

Calling all Crew..................................Calling all Crew

Sunday 26 February will once again see the Royal Australian Naval Sailing Association (RANSA) at Rushcutters Bay hosting its annual Regatta to raise money for the Sir David Martin Foundation (SDMF). The Foundation, named after the former Governor of NSW, supports youth programs that assist marginalised young people in our community in making the steps towards a positive future. All proceeds from the Regatta will go towards the Foundation.Entrants will compete on behalf of their club the Admiral’s Trophy. There will also be both divisional and additional lucky-draw prizes back at the clubhouse for competitors and crew.

The Admiral’s Trophy was first presented in 1987 and is won by the Sydney yacht club that performs best overall in the eight competing divisions; the best five results are counted. All Sydney yacht clubs are invited to compete.

In 1987 the Admiral’s Trophy was won by Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club. In fact this was the start of a winning streak that saw RPEYC’s hold on the trophy remain unbroken until 1999 – it was won that year by Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron. RANSA regained the trophy in 2004 and has held it since then.

Racing will commence on Sydney Harbour at 11am with eight mixed divisions including two non-spinnaker divisions catering for a range of craft from big boats to small keel boats. The committee vessel for the regatta will be HMAS Yarra – a Royal Australian Navy minesweeper.

RANSA is keen to top last year’s entries of 98 yachts in its bid to raise more money for the SDMF and is being supported by the Royal Australian Navy, Dacha Holidays and Hood Sailmakers.

This year there will be a draw back at the club for a one day sea ride on HMAS MANOORA for up to 10 people - which will involve a transit outside Sydney Heads - to get to see what the Royal Australian Navy's largest warships get up to at sea. A three day holiday in a luxury apartment at Dutchies Beach, Port Stephens will also be up for grabs. Divisional prizes are being generously provided by Hood Sails.

Other post race activities include entertainment by the “Red Hot Pappas” jazz band, special regatta refreshments, and prize giving. There’s a full day of activities a special opportunity for competitors and RANSA to help support youth in our community.

Summer Twilights on the new Stone Frog

2007-01-13T14:34:00.000+11:00

How deep is Frog Lake?.......................................Knee deep, knee deep,

RANSA Race Febuary 9th 2007 - Crew Scott, Tony, Ant, Jo, Justine, and Sam. Fairly light conditions promised for some champagne sailing. The fine weather saw a huge fleet and the start line was non other than chaotic, with Megisto c0ming accross port on the startline causing at least one collision. The Frog went up, went down, eased off, pulled on and navigated successfully thhrough this chaos to get a good start. From here we broad reached up the harbour to our mark, and pretty much the same on the return. Again Jo & Justine held the cockpit and winched and pulled and carried on, Tony performed great ballast along with Sam, while Ant called some mighty fine shots on the bow. Kyles and Fee Fee joined us for a drink at RANSA to hear the race results, many thanks to Fee Fee for her fine but controversial rissole sandwiches. Janet belowed the results out to the crowd with every grace of a fine race caller - three cheers for Janet she is the gem of the club - Leap Frog scores 5th place - current handicap .6402 - if anyone knows what this means or how it is calculated please let us know.

February 2, 2007 - RANSA Race - The crew was pumping with Scott, Tony, Ant, Justine and Jo - and the form was looking good. A few quick vodkas, bourbouns, beers and mineral waters gave the crew the charge they needed to push the Frog to her limits. Tony worked well as ballast, with Ant doing some good spotting, calling, and intermittent ballast, justine and jo held the cockpit floor and winched like wenches that had winched before, and of course Captain Scott steered the course like a man possesssed. Leap Frog 1st place winner division 3

A social sail in 40-50knots What was to be a tame sunday afternoon luncheon sail, met with 40-50knots and a handerkerchief headsail, gave the crew a thrill that the jetboats can only dream of. Leapfrog dipped her toerails in to the harbour and plowed through the whitecaps that resembled small tsunamis

The second race for Leapfrog

26th February 2007 - The tide was very low, a king of a low. Leapfrog on her way to the RANSA safety check got bogged int he mud at Elizabeth Bay, all we could do was drink beer and wait for the tide to rise - and help Chris on Kalula who had his boat on the slip

Leap Frog after the makeover
Leap Frog has had some major works performed and is looking like a classic lady of the harbour.

The vibrant yellow is now a heritage stone like beige, with a stiking blue bottom which matches the sail trim, trimed with a white waterine. The coachhouse although still in need of another coat will remain white, yet the decks are yet to go a pale grey with non slip surfaces.
The interiors are ready for a final topcoat, and then the fittings and dressings will begin. The head is now an operating port a potty (you use - you empty type system)

12/1/2007 Leap Frog rejoins the RANSA twilights

Crew Scott, Tony, Anthony, Jo, and Frank - forecast 13-18knots and evening thunderstorms. Actually it was more like 30 - 35knots with whitecaps the size of small ships.

The crew worked well and we reefed early and reefed often, but for our first race it was proving to be a challenge . A little more practice was required to get back to the top of the point score.

After some yelling and discussion, a few twist-tops throw downs, and cans of bourbons, and even a pringle or two. A call was made (which was supported unamiously) that we should go back to the bar and have a drink or two and not start the season with this race. .

RANSA twilights are every Friday night, leaving Elizabeth Bay Marina no later than 4.45pm so Kev can knock off on time. Contact the Sailing Leap Frog offices to secure your crewing position now. (add comments in the blog to register now)

ASCC Treasure hunt is on Saturday 27th January 2007 9am at Elizabeth Bay Marina, with the first race for the summer series on the Sunday 28th January 2007 11am Elizabeth Bay Marina, please contact the Sailing Leap Frog offices to register your crew positions now. (add comments onto the blog to register now)

The Frog is gearing up for Summer Racing

2006-08-22T18:08:00.000+10:00

Leap Frog, has leapt out of the winter series with a dirty bottom, and ever decreasing crew, it has been cold and there has been some good excuses!!!!

The first race for the ASCC spring series is on Sunday the 3rd September Crew Scott, Tony, space? space? space?, space?, (let me know)

RANSA Twiligts start soon - watch this space - calling all crew - let First Mate Tony know your availability to ensure your spot for these Balmy Summer Friday Evening Harbour Shindigs.

Boat Work - Leap Frog is having some surgery, both cosmetic and structural, another hard weekend of work should see some good progress, and hopefully a slipping and antifoul in the next couple of weeks, will ensure the Frog slips through the water like a slimey frog!!!!

RANSA winter series

2006-06-03T16:42:00.000+10:00

8th July 2006 - RANSA Race 9 - Crew Scott, Tony, Scott 2, Chris, and Anthony - Geez Louise can a race get any slower than that of Race 9. We held hopes early that the wind would pick up, and it did for a moment on the up harbour spinnaker run, where we were placing pretty bloody well. But after rounding the East Channel mark, thye wind died in the arse and Leap Frog sat on her harbour lilly pad and drifted home. Leap Frog drifted over the line around 4.10pm. Results 14th Place

1st July 2006 - RANSA Race 8 - Leap Frog Did not race - too many sick crew - too cold - too low on the enthusiasm

24th June 2006 - RANSA Race 7 Crew, Scott, Scott 2, Pat, Jo, Greg, and Dayna. Was a lovely sunny day and nice winds @ 15-20 knots. Tony sick like a dog, waved the crew goodbye (well Scott anyway) and went back to bed. Reports came in during the day from Fee Fee La Rue, who was chasing LeapFrog with Chris in the tender, but up went the spinnaker, and the Frog took off leaving the tender for dead "She looked beautiful" said Fee Fee La Rue. I hear much fun was had by all, a few beers and some more mini quiches. Result Leap frog scores 9th place well done crew.

17th June 2006 - Combined Club Race RANSA, Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, Sydney Amatuer Sailing Club -Scott, Tony, Justine, Fee Fee, and Kari Ferrari. A lovely sunny day on the harbour and a very busy start line with 5 divisions and 64 starters. We decided not too fly the spinnaker as the wind @15-20knots could put our crew into strife, without Spinnaker master Chris on board. The Frog sailed well and she stayed amongst the fleet, despite the fact most over boats flew there spinnakers. On the second mark at Pig and Sow Reef, dropping the pole and rounding the mark the headsail somehow became very tangled around the furler, we had too redirect the frog upwind to untangle it, loosing about 500m in ground. We thought we were doomed! The Frog and crew (go winch wenches Justine and Fee Fee) continued to perform well. It was a very long course, round Shark Island 4 or 5 times, up the harbour twice, and across the harbour 4 or 5 times. It took us 3 and 1/2 hours to complete the course.
Results. Leapfrog scores 6th in division 4 combined clubs, and 1st in division 4 RANSA. (Well done team)

10th June 2006 - RANSA Race 6 - Crew Scott, Tony, Chris, Scott2, and special guest appearance of David from Byron. It was yet another overcast cold day, with 10-15 knots predicted. Perfect weather for our

spinnaker. With the crew well prepped for another win, we set out with another first on our minds. The wind never reached over 5 knots and the harbour looked like glass, even with the spinnaker flying Leap Frog stuggled forward through the harbour, after rounding our third mark at Rose Bay East and yet another two long legs to run, we decided to withdraw from the race as we where going nowhere - later Janet called to inform us the race had been abandoned, no-one had finished the course, the wind had really died in the harbour. Well done crew, we did our best under the circumstances.

3rd June 2006 - RANSA Race 5 - Crew Scott, Tony, Fee, Justine, Scott 2, and one wassy pussycat. 17 degrees, raining, winds gusting at 25-30knots, "it's a Doona Day, rather not a sailing day" said Justine, and she was right. All crew bar the wassy pussycat put on a brave front, and all got to the boat. A quick service on the winches, we realised the starboard winch was unserviceable, and once 10 minutes till the start gun, and Leap Frog still on her mooring with winches in pieces, and the rain teasing with her icey drops. Leap Frog Withdraws from the race.

27th May 2006 - RANSA 4 - Crew, Scott, Tony, Chris, Justine, Fee, Scott2
Winds were gusting at 20knots, the spinnaker was too big to fly, we had a great start running the line, and a good sail up the harbour - spinnakerless - we lost valuable ground, all in all a lovely day out. Leap Frog placed 11th

2006-05-24T19:18:00.000+10:00

Leap Frog and crew in form

Additional pictures of the 1st place win RANSA & Sunday sailing for

Pit chick Justinekeeping an eye on the course above, and a happy Captain Scott below

Tony and Fee successfully returning with fish'n'chips

Winter Racing RANSA Saturday series and ASCC end of Summer Series

2006-05-01T14:58:00.000+10:00

RANSA RACE 4 @ 27th May 2006 - Crew Scott, Tony, Justine, Chris, Scott 2, Fee Fee La Rue - with BBQ at Elizabeth Bay Marina after the race

ASCC Race Race 6 @ 21st May 2006 - Woops!!!! we din't realise this race was on until we saw Mercedes sail by us flying the ASCC flags, we had no time to make the start line so Scott, Tony, and Fee Fee continued on our leisurley Sunday sail to Watsons Bay for fish and chips where we met Phil on his Carmen, and where challenged to a race back down the harbour. Leap Frog creamed the Carmen and Leap Frog continued her winning performance.

RANSA Race 3 @ 20th May 2006 - Crew, Scott, Tony, Chris, Justine, Jo and Scott2. A fairly overcast day with winds @ 15 knots and the spinnaker ready to fly. We where in for a good day. We kept up with the fleet, even overtaking some yachts under spinnaker. Despite the overcast and showery day our spirits remained high, and we powered back up the harbour to east channel, knowing we were doing quiet well. coming back down to Clarke Island we couldn't find the committee boat or finish line, so rang Janet who informed us the race had been shortened and we had infact crossed the line back at East channel. Later that night we had a call from Max informing us we had

placed a 1st in division 2 spinnaker - our hadnicap will suffer - but go Leap Frog and crew yeeeehhhaaaa!!!!!!!!!!

RANSA Race 2 @ 13th May 2006 - Crew Scott, Tony, Chris, Justine, and Scott 2. After starting the race in light winds, we decided to withdraw from the race and practise flying the spinnaker. We became pro's at spinnaker flying.

RANSA Race 1 @ 6th May 2006- Crew, Scott, Tony, Matt, and Justine
(We will be flying the Spinnaker this series)

Congratulations to our crew for the first race. Unfortunatley we did not finish in time - the disadvantage of our 9 tonne cruising boat in light winds). Thanks to all crew and friends that came to RANSA for drinks afterwards - We can only improve 'Go Team"

ASCC Race 5 @ 7th May 2006 - Crew. Scott, Tony, Andy, and Kari Ferrari
WOW what a race - We were 1st across the start line and at 25knots the wind was in our favour, we rounded Fort Denison just ahead of Maria, Roger and David and headed to our next mark at Rose Bay East, along this leg we witnessed 3 masts snap, 2 main sails shred, a spinnaker shred and a collision with two men overboard, by this stage the winds were gusting off the charts at over
40knots, so this was the stage we deciced too reef the mainsail and the headsail, (lesson to be learned, Reef early, Reef often). Leap Frog rounded the mark at Rose Bay East and having fought Maria off, we headed to our next mark at Clarke Island, with a number 1 reef in and about 1/3 headsail, we headed in parallel with a large fleet of 40ft plus boats, rounding there mark and lowering there spinnakers. Now it all goes haywire! We are pushed off course by a ferry and a out of control spinnaker flying yacht, and ended up 2 metres from the sea wall at Point Piper and headed towards two large submerged rocks about 1 meter apart,
and actually managed too sail through the rocks, crash jibbing, headsail line fouled, helm overpowered and no steerage, miracuously getting out of this nerve racking prediciment, we decided to take a brief pause and try regain our composure, it was in this process we decided to withdraw from the race. The winds still gusting off the charts at 40 knots, bringing down the maisail was not easy, Andy and Tony got the sail down, but still yet to be secured, and trying desperatley to gain control the sail Tony found crew mate Andy clinging to the mast, stating "Sorry Mate I can't do anything but hold on!" and proceeded to turn green, very green. Kari quickly jumped to Tony and Andy's aid, and we secured the main as best we could to the boom. We were now under motor, and found we had no steerage, "Damage" we thought from the rocks, we freaked out "40knot winds, and no steerage", and to cap things off we were being pushed faster by the wind than our motor would drive us, (with no sails up) after many more arrghh %$*&'s and aaarrgghh $%&####$%*'s we're $%$#%$ed. We decided our only option was to sail under a about 1/4 headsail, and prayed the rudder would not fall off. Much to our relief we now had control and way. We safely returned under our 1/4 heady very cautiously, maybe even tacking too much to avoid any solid objects, land, even floating logs; to our mooring at Elizabeth Bay and opened a bottle of wine in relief and celebration. "Yeah team"! Andy we hope your feeling much better and haven't had your sea legs too dampened, It was a %$%& of a day. Kari soaked to the bone, go trooper, and no nails broken.

Below is a picture perfect race for any doubting crew after this weekend

(Leap Frog is 2nd in overall ASCC series, and only 2 points behind 1st. Mostly due to missing 1 race that was held on Easter Weekend, although we did have fun in Byron!!! so all is not too bad.) (We wait to see what happened, we think the entire fleet ended withdrawing race 5)

Pics of the Blues Festival in Byron

Leap Frog and Crew pics

2006-03-13T13:15:00.000+11:00

Laurie on Perrin one of our competitors in the ASCC races above and Leap frog on her mooring Betty Bay Captain Scott and First Mate Tony
Anni and crew on Chesire Cat another of our competitors in the ASCC races

Crew for RANSA races

Scott Kylie and Anthony pre ASCC race

March 2006 Sailing

2006-03-12T15:10:00.000+11:00

This month has seen lots of sailing and racing with Leap Frog on Sydney Harbour, Restoration work has progressed at a rapid rate with the interiors now almost fully scraped, sanded, and undercoated in the main saloon.

RANSA 3-3-06 Crew Scott, Tony, Anthony, and Jo. It was a tough race and very busy start line with many a starboard called - 15th place - then to the RANSA clubhouse for a burger and beer.

RANSA 10-03-06 Crew Scott, Tony, Anthony, Jo, and Scott 2 - The winds were predicted at 30knots, so we reefed our sails to the first reef point, but we soon realised that to be competitive in this race, we needed full sails, so out came the sails we keeled over and off we went, even with a slight early call on Clarke Island and some extra tacking we did quiet well scoring a 10th place

Friday 17th March 2006 - Final RANSA summer twilight
Crew - Scott, Tony, Anthony, Jo, Scott 2, and Leiza (special guest appearance from QLD), afterwards drinks and burgers at the RANSA clubhouse all crew invited past present and future invited
13th place - very much social champagne sailing - much fun had by all

Jo, Leiza and Scott 2 RANSA race

February Sailing 2006 - Save the Whales

2006-02-04T11:44:00.000+11:00

SAVE THE WHALES - CLICK HERE TO SIGN THE PETITION
www.whalesrevenge.com

Scott and Kylie with real crew action

Friday the 3rd February 2006 - RANSA Race 12
Crew - Scott, Anthony, Jo and Greg - 9th place - well done crew in light winds

Sunday the 5th February 2006 - ASCC Race
Crew Scott, Tony, Anthony, and Fee Fee La Rue. Thanks crew great race. Raced well and thought we got a first. But we got 9th - well done team - how did this happen? (to confirm these results)

Friday the 10th February 2006 - RANSA Race 13
Crew - Scott, Tony, Frank - Cancelled due to missing crew and parties to be had

Friday the 17th February 2006 - RANSA Race 14
Crew - Scott, Tony, Anthony, and Jo - 14th place

Friday the 24th February 2006 - RANSA Race 15
Crew - Scott, Tony, Anthony, Jo - 17th place - slipping crew, less beer more focus

Crew for Spinnaker Sailing

2006-01-29T10:39:00.000+11:00

Its time for us to start flying the spinnaker. Can those who are interested in flying the Widow Maker, let me know.. We wont race with the spinnaker this season, but next season look out sydney ...

Leap Frog Crew Shirt Design

2005-12-13T20:47:00.000+11:00

Greg has designed our new logo for our crew shirts - check it out

The Comments Porthole

2005-12-12T12:58:00.000+11:00

Click on Comments then OTHER - add your name - and comment away

January Sailing 2006

2005-12-01T17:53:00.000+11:00

Trying out "Nicole" the dinghy below & Sailing up to Lion Island and Palm Beach left

Tony's catch of the day below

Scott throwing a line in at Smiths Creek above

Sunset at Coasters Retreat below

Sammy & Scott above

Kari Relaxing above

Christmas Holidays - The Hawksbury River was very relaxing and picturesque, here are a few happy snaps. We thoroughly explored the area with 16 days, Smiths Creek to Bobbin Head, and Cottage Point, up to Brooklyn on the Hawkesbury, and all through Pittwater, Coasters Retreat being a favourite. Everywhere was very popular area over christmas, with some bays looking like floating caravan parks

Playing cards at America's Bay

Monday 16th - Thanks to Ant, Fee Fee, and Scott for bringing Leap Frog home, sounds like a washing machine of a trip, with a few green, yellow purple faces and a few green, yellow and purple chunders, although from all accounts the salad rolls where nice on the initial intake.

Pics of Return Trip from Palm Beach - Fee in the red swimsuit looking like a pussycat

Friday 20th - RANSA Twilights - Scott, Tony, Anthony, Jo - A great race, the bets are on for our place Scott says 8th, Ant, 11th, Tony 12th and Jo 13th - we await the results - GO TEAM

News Flash

Leap Frog scores

2nd place

Sunday 22nd - - ASCC 1st Summer Race Crew Scott, Tony, Fee Fee La Rue, Ant, Kylie
see www.ascc.org.au - Race starting Balmain around Specatcle Island, down past Cockatoo Island, around Goat Island, back to Spectacle and around Cockatoo and back to Balmain, only 5 boats raced, Leap Frog was 3rd over the line, awaiting results. Fee Fee La Rue piked out due to a big night and resulting hangover . 3rd on handicap

Australia Day - A combined Australia Day and Scott's Birthday party celebration happened at Strickland House, a crew sailed the boat over and anchored off Milk Beach in front of Strickland House. A party then proceeded, the photos tell the story.

Scott and Bernard - can you spot Leap Frog on anchor
The picnic party clan

Friday 27th - RANSA Twilights - Scott, Tony, Anthony, & Irish Shane. A very tired crew arrived for 25 - 30 knots of wind and harbour whitecaps. We reefed the main and the headsail on a number 1 reef. It was a hard battle up the harbour but we still managed to drink a case of beer and get a 5th place in the race - well done team

December 2005 Sailing

2005-11-26T04:35:00.000+11:00

Boat Renaming Ceremony - with Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence

It's well known that renaming your boat will bring bad luck and make your boating experience something that you will want to forget. But what happens when, you find your dreamboat with a name that you just cannot live with. Renaming a boat is, of course, not something to be done lightly. Since the beginning of time, sailors have sworn that there are unlucky ships and the unluckiest ships of all are those who have defied the gods and changed their names. According to legend, every vessel is recorded by name in the Ledger of the Deep and is known personally to Poseidon, or Neptune, the god of the sea. Therefore if we wish to change the name of our boat, the first thing we must do is to purge its name from the Ledger of the Deep and from Poseidon's memory.

Leaping Frog

This is an involved process beginning with the complete removal of every trace of the boat's current identity. This is essential and must be done thoroughly.
You may use White-Out to cover the boat's name in log books, engine and maintenance records ships library books etc., but it is much easier to simply remove the offending document from the boat and start afresh. Don't forget the life rings. Do not under any circumstances carry aboard any item bearing your boat's new name until the renaming ceremony has been completed! Once you are certain every reference to her old name has been removed, you have to make a metal tag with the old name written on it in water-soluble ink.

Down wind champagne sail

Buy a bottle of good Champagne & invite your friends to witness and party.
Begin by invoking the name of the ruler of the deep as follows:
Oh mighty and great ruler of the seas and oceans, to whom all ships and we who venture upon your vast domain are required to pay homage, implore you in your graciousness to expunge for all time from your records and recollection the name (here insert the old name of your vessel) which has ceased to be an entity in your kingdom. As proof thereof, we submit this ingot bearing her name to be corrupted through your powers and forever be purged from the sea. (At this point, the prepared metal tag is dropped from the bow of the boat into the sea.)
In grateful acknowledgment of your munificence and dispensation, we offer these libations to your majesty and your court. (Pour at least half of the bottle of Champagne into the sea from East to West. The remainder may be passed among your guests.)
You must conduct the renaming ceremony immediately after the purging ceremony. For this you will need more Champagne.

Begin the renaming by again calling Poseidon as follows:
Oh mighty and great ruler of the seas and oceans, to whom all ships and we who venture upon your vast domain are required to pay homage, implore you in your graciousness to take unto your records and recollection this worthy vessel hereafter and for all time known as (Here insert the new name you have chosen), guarding her with your mighty arm and trident and ensuring her of safe and rapid passage throughout her journeys within your realm.

In appreciation of your munificence, dispensation and in honor of your greatness, we offer these libations to your majesty and your court. (At this point, one bottle of Champagne, less one glass for the master and one glass for the mate are poured into the sea from West to East.)
The next step in the renaming ceremony is to appease the gods of the winds. This will assure you of fair winds and smooth seas. Because the four winds are brothers, it is permissible to invoke them all at the same time, however, during the ceremony; you must address each by name.

Begin in this manner:
Oh mighty rulers of the winds, through whose power our frail vessels traverse the wild and faceless deep, we implore you to grant this worthy vessel (Insert your boat's new name) the benefits and pleasures of your bounty, ensuring us of your gentle ministration according to our needs.
(Facing north, pour a generous libation of Champagne into a Champagne flute and fling to the North as you intone:) Great Boreas, exalted ruler of the North Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your frigid breath.
(Facing west, pour the same amount of Champagne and fling to the West while intoning:) Great Zephyrus, exalted ruler of the West Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your wild breath.
(Facing east, repeat and fling to the East.) Great Eurus, exalted ruler of the East Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your mighty breath.
(Facing south, repeat, flinging to the South.) Great Notus, exalted ruler of the South Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your scalding breath.
Of course, any champagne remaining will be the beginnings of a suitable celebration in honor of the occasion.
Once the ceremony has been completed, you may bring aboard any and all items bearing the new name of your vessel. If you must schedule the painting of the new name on the transom before the ceremony, be sure the name is not revealed before the ceremony is finished. It may be covered with bunting or some other suitable material.

December Sailing

Friday 25th November RANSA Twilight - Scott, Tony , Anthony, Chris

Did not Finish - we missed the line by 200 meteres before the sunset - we weren't the only ones - even some of the maxis didn't cross - the wind died at about 7pm - all good for our handicap though
Saturday 26th - Pooring Rain
Sunday 27th November - ASCC Race Scott, Tony, Cate and Brin

cancelled due to horrific weather

Friday 2nd December - RANSA Twilight - No racing Captain away
Saturday 3rd December - The interior ceiling got a paint job, and the bilge pump got pulled out for a makeover
Sunday 4th December - Kari's sailing birthday --- What a glorious day of sailing - 28 degrees and winds 15 - 25 knots - we hooted up the harbour with a lovely westerly to Chinamans Beach where we met karis family and friends for a picnic, swims, boule', wine, champagne, a beautiful birthday cake (thanks Judy/ Kari's mum), after our very full bellies, we all jumped back on and sailed back down the harbour past the opera house and under the bridge doing at least 4-5 knots, and lots of keeling over.

Kari Birthday photos

Kari's cake Cruising
Miss K BeckerUnder the bridge Captain Shoddy Back
Harbour sailing

Friday 9th Decmeber- RANSA Twilight - Scott, Tony, Anthony, Andy, and Jo. We sailed like a hooter up the harbour, but lost it downwind - bloody heavy wooden boats - overlall we came in last over the line - but 2nd last on handicap.
Saturday 10th December - Work day - almost got the gear box out - Thanks to David, The loo came out successfully, and the new loo ordered. (Lady sailors rejoice)
Sunday 11th December - ASCC Race - last race of spring series - Crew Scott, Tony, Cate and Brin - Wow what a race - we lead the pack most of the day - and came 2nd over the line (only beaten by a maxi) and 2nd on handicap - New tactics now in play, and thanks to our active dinghy sailor Brin (trimming does make a difference)
Tuesday 13th December - Twilight sail - Canned no motor, till gear box repaired - THE GEAR BOX IS OUT AND AT THE MECHANICS - thanks Chris, and Sam.

Friday 16th December - RANSA Twilight - Scott, Tony, Anthony, Chris, and Matt. A really good race, awaiting results - we think we did really well!!!! - We came 14th overall, with handicapp - climbing that ladder
ASCC Race - Leap Frog - Hoooning

Saturday 17th December -
Sunday 18th December -
Sunday 25th December - Merry Christmas
Monday 26th Dec - In Hawkesbury
Tuesday 27th Dec - In Hawkesbury
The Hawkesbury