WOODEN BOATS IN CAIRNS

WBAC has again been invited to participate in this year’s Cairns Swap Meet.
By far the biggest event of its kind in FNQ, attracting thousands of visitors and hundreds of stall holders.

Although promoted as a car and truck show, the trading component of the event is very popular with many market stalls, trailers and car boots chock full of everything for the discerning swap-meet junkie. Not just car bits.

On-site catering and live music is also provided conveniently near our marquee.

Last year was our first attendance and we were a little overwhelmed by the enormity of the event. We have managed to secure the same predominate corner position and plan to make quite a statement this year with a display of members boats, club information, merchandise and of course Kath & Kim. We will have plenty of trestles and we encourage members to bring along their ’pre-loved’ goods and chattels to sell, or just sit under our marquee and watch the passing parade.

Gates open at the show grounds entrance off Scott St at 6am (for early bargain hunters) and events conclude about 2pm.
$3 entry fee is donated to local charity. More information

Tribute to a Starlet

Aging movie star 'MV Beach Bums' came to us in 2007 desperate for a home. Her WBAC cameo at the 2008 Great Tinaroo Raid as 'SV Defender' proved she would again bathe in the spotlight for a while. Then with her new stage name 'Miss Piggy ' and two further performances, one as a Pirate ship and second a Viking longboat, she received outstanding accolades. But no amount of makeovers can prevent the inevitable. Miss Piggy was diagnosed with terminal rot and was sadly dismantled today. We have kept her best bits for show and cremated the remains with quiet ceremony. New fleet members Kath & Kim will step up to the prestigious position of WBAC flagships shortly.


Lennie' Big Day Out 87 year old ex rigger Len Foxcroft was treated to a personalized inspection of HMB Endeavour as the famous replica docked in Cairns during her current circumnavigation of Australia.
	Crew member Dirk escorted Len as they inspected every nook and cranny of the vessel with some extended playtime amongst the 30 kilometres of rigging and 750 wooden blocks. Their tour also included morning coffee at WBAC clubhouse to meet and chat with members. The history and current sailing itinerary of HMB Endeavour replica can be found at http://www.anmm.gov.au

Famous Croc Boats to reside in Cairns

The Wooden Boat Association of Cairns is now custodian of these unique and magnificent vessels.

“Kath & Kim” were handed over to WBAC by Dragons Abreast Townsville at a special ceremony during the Great Tinaroo Raid last weekend.

Dragons Abreast Coordinator Rebecca Jacobs says the boats are not currently being used to their full potential with club members preferring newer fibreglass outriggers for training and competitions. The croc boats deserve more use and promotion and we have identified the Wooden Boat Assoc as worthy recipients.

Sponsored by Rotary International the croc boats were designed and constructed by Tableland artisan Bill Suter for a special rowing regatta at Lake Tinaroo and later donated to Dragons Abreast Townsville to assist with promotion of the new club and their activities.

WBAC President Bob Goodall says members are excited with the opportunity to involve the croc boats in displays and club events; they certainly attract attention wherever they go and will make ideal flagships for our association. Miss Piggy is a bit miffed at her displacement, but she’ll get over it.

The croc boats will reside in Cairns as soon as extensions to WBAC’s clubhouse are complete. Regular outings for the twins are assured with many allied maritime clubs requesting attendance at their events. A debut appearance at this year’s Festival of Cairns Street Parade is also planned.