Phone: 61-7-40 603 413

Fax: 61-7-40 603 423

May 2006

"We have had more of our fair share of rain this 'wet', with Cat 3 cyclone Monica thrown in for good measure.

There was a few worrying moments when it was predicted heading straight for us. Jo Jo was tied to the reef with four anchors and we braced the plastic screens with wooden batons to prevent them blowing in.

Guests opted for a day home and settled into watch the spectacle from the comfort of the dining table where a long lunch was called for. Luckily no damage done due to  a freak all day low in the tide and the good old hump of the island protecting us from the prevailing winds. Next day it was business as usual and good days fishing dining and exploring was had all round.

With all the rain the island is now shining in all her glory. Tanks are brimming over. The orchard has trickling creek winding its way through the okra, guado beans and rocket.

Staff this year are Mel and Laura. Both repeat staff who, to our delight, have agreed to stay a year and really learn some things. So far they have got used to the ways of Walter and Martha (our ever growing wild pigs). Tackled the boats and managed to drive to Hicks and back in terrible weather where I've seen ex-Vietnam vets come unstuck. Learnt how to stake banana plats, cook curries, light fires, fix toilets, and all the rest that comes with daily Haggerstone life. Both have had their other halves up for a visit. Laura's boy friend,  Scott, got stuck up here due to the wet weather and finally had to escape back to work by ship ( four day journey south to Cairns was only the beginning).

Roy's latest folly The Jetty has fast become a big attraction. The fish life is absolutely full on with a large school of 'bait fish' ever present and continually hounded by everything bigger. The noise and action is phenomenal even if you haven't got a line in.

The fire place on the jetty has been a great success and  has become a good spot for early evening drinks and snacks and, if Roy has his way, dinner al fresco.

Sam and Tasha are still here and growing fast. Sam has taken up fishing in a big way. Fly fishing and casting being the main attraction. Tasha who is far less keen on boats and fish has taken up painting in an equally big way. Both still schooling here with me as their teacher this year. Something I am thoroughly enjoying even if they aren't".

Regards to all Anna.