A 0500 start saw us exiting the breakwaters of Newcastle at 0615 as the first signs of light appeared to the east. It was bitterly cold and even before exiting we could feel the swell rolling in and could see spray being thrown up into the air as the southerly swell crashed into the breakwater.

Once outside we were in a world of heaving swells 3 to 4 metres in height but fortunately they were of a long period and not breaking. Throughout today we have sailed and motor sailed down the coast and we are currently off Sydney, the skyline is clearly visible from 8nm offshore. We will continue south towards Jervis Bay where we may stop tomorrow morning to let another front pass. Our weather man thinks there is a possibility of continuing on to Eden without stopping, so we'll see.