Today we crossed the tropic of Capricorn. I have been surprised at how cool it has been, mid 70s by day, 60s at night but I realize that it is early spring, and we are now south of 25 degrees. I am glad for the break from the heat. I have actually put on my foul jacket at night, the first time since before Hilo.

Yesterday, for only the second time on the trip, we got out our asymmetrical Spinnaker. Like the first time, we didn't get to use it for long. The first time the wind built up beyond the safe zone for this light air sail. This time the wind died 30 minutes after we raised it. Oh well, it was pretty to look at for a while.

We have motorsailed in light wind for 38 of the first 48 hours of the trip. This was part of the trip plan, I had generally a good weather window but light wind and calm seas at the outset. This passage should only be 6 days and as I have multiple forecasts for stronger wind the rest of the way I am not too concerned about fuel. I only need to sail about 30 of the remaining 100 hours to get in without having to touch my reserve cans in the hold. It would be a pain to fill with them at sea, but it is nice to know they are there.

This morning the wind has been building up to 20 kt out of the north and we have been sailing at 6.2kt for several hours. This is quite fast for our boat, but well within the limits. Soon we will cross a cold front, which will swing the winds west, then eventually south. We will probably have to motorsail for a few hours tonight to stay on course - We could alter course and save a couple gallons of fuel, but I am not a purist. I am anxious to get into Brisbane, park the boat and see the family. I have enjoyed the sailing, but am ready to be on land a while. I will have one more leg on Jason's boat, but the pressures of being the captain will be his.