The Steamtug Blog

16 brave souls ventured down to the Geelong waterfront despite the threats from the weather bureau that said strong winds (from the worst direction) and later storms with thunder, lightning and all the trimmings. I told them before they came that there would be only a small chance that we would “put to sea” but it would still be a great place to party and still the best place in Geelong to see the fireworks.

Well the storm front arrived around 7.30pm accompanied by howling westerly gales and the temperature dropped from 39 degrees to 22 in just 10 minutes.  We watched one of the small boats that ventured out struggling to hold their anchor and get the engines running before dashing back into the safety of the marina. Some heavy rain followed and it all settled down to be a very pleasant evening.

Our resident seal (Murray) just couldn’t contain his enthusiasm for a swim, donned his wet suit and fins and dived overboard. Anita reckons he is just a naughtly 10 year old boy! We sat and listened to one of my favourite Australian bands “Eskimo Joe” playing on the waterfront, until the midnight fireworks added to the entertainment. We were anchored only 200 metres from the fireworks barge so had the best view in Geelong!

Happy New Year everyone, and thanks to those aboard who helped make it a special night.

Mark.