Okay, that was REALLY exciting!

We pulled into Coffs Harbour to wait for southerlies to abate before continuing south to Sydney. As usual when we're in marinas and occupied with projects, we ignored the weather forecasts. Then Jim began getting messages on forums about getting out of Coffs Harbour before the storm. Storm ... what storm?

A quick look at the Bureau of Meteorology site confirmed something ugly coming our way. Higgins Storm Chasers were already warning people in Bundaberg to be prepared for severe weather and when we woke up the next morning we learned of tornados touching down in that area.

Sheesh, until this point we were only concerned with the jellyfish, snakes, sharks and other creatures that can kill you in Australia, we hadn't considered the weather. We just assumed it would be fairly benign compared to New Zealand. Wrong.

We reviewed the options, which were all up rivers, and decided to stay put for fear of flooding. Fortunately the boat next to us went out on the hard so we tied Tenaya off on both fingers with eight lines and settled in to wait for the show.

Mother Nature did not disappoint. Yesterday was awesome! 7-8 meter waves crashed onto and broke over the jetty. The wind blew up to 45 knots. LOTS of rain fell. Watching from back deck was not that much different than being at sea during a good blow except I didn't have to think about the boat, I could just watch, take pictures and enjoy. It was so cool!!!

Jim made a fun 2 minute video of the storm. Watch it here:
YouTube video of waves breaking over jetty ...