Darwin.

  We came through the night encountering the dreamtime, swirling whirlpools and a warship ghosting by. The weather was kind.

  At first light we saw a distant Darwin and celebrated with the last of our coffee; it was another 6 hours of frustration to get to anchor.

  Before being allowed into a marina the boat needed be inspected by the 'Aquatic Pest Management monitors'. A diver 'introduced' into the boats water intakes some form of chemical;an undertaking was also required we would not disturb them for 18 hours. (Included the loo).

  With Pest Certificate in hand, and owing to the tidal range, we entered Cullen Bay Marina through its lock system. This would have to be one of the few places in Aust. that has a Lockmaster! This is also the first time since we left Cooktown, over a month ago, that we can step off the boat onto 'dry land'.  

  With the boat secure Gerald and I are heading back to Melbourne for a week.