Influence by Julie Porter
Julie Porter • September 15, 2020
"Influence" By Julie Porter
It’s 1970. A young girl, no more than the age of five, standing on the shore overlooking the marina and gazing at boats, wondering.
Puzzling at the maze of lines and the tall masts, she asks her Dad, “Can we go on one of them?” He replies wistfully, “Not today; maybe one day”.
They continue walking along the shore, and the Wellington-Picton ferry, Aratika, comes into sight.
“We will be on that soon”, skipping happily along, knowing that soon she will be visiting her favourite aunt and sailing through Queen Charlotte Sound.
Fast forward a few years; there have been many walks along the foreshore with her Dad and journeys on the ferry. Even though the opportunity to sail was yet to occur, there was always a fascination with boats.
So began my story.
One day in 1982, the local newspaper had a picture of a boat. Not just any boat, but a sailing ship.
The caption is “Share your Spirit of Adventure”, trainees wanted and a postal address.
Being very reserved, (still no taller than 5 foot) and shy, this was perfect. No need to make a phone call (no email in those days; that was yet to be invented). I wrote a letter requesting more information and posted it off, never really expecting to hear anything but always hopeful.
A few days later, a package arrived in the mail with more information about the ship and most importantly, how to apply for a bursary. With great trepidation, I approached the principal with an application. The most memorable part of the conversation was, “Why would you do that? You’re a girl and no-one from our College has ever done it before”.
I remember answering, “Why not; that’s all the more reason to do it”. The principal smiled amusedly, and the application was sent.
The journey begins. Stepping onboard the Spirit of Adventure in May 1982 was the day that really would set a new course.
Approaching the vessel, it was like nothing that I had ever seen before. I stood on the dock in awe. So many lines, and the masts looked enormous. Would I really get to climb up there?
Once onboard, in our allocated watches, and after the first few hours, the Wellington weather lived up to its wet and windy reputation. The first lesson: if you haven't packed, followed the list, then you'll have to adapt and use what you have. No electric blankets here!
Ours was an all-female trainee trip, the Master of the vessel was Captain Nick Hylton; First Mate Naomi Peterson.
It was the small things that made such an impact. Being of short stature, reading the compass at night was challenging. Unable to easily see the Lubber Line, the ship’s course was frequently heading towards Nelson rather than Picton. Captain Hylton came up from below, looking concerned.
He noticed the problem, and rather than react angrily, said learn to sail like the old mariners; follow your dream and follow the stars. He pointed out the Southern Cross and the stars Altaire and Antares. Line the top of the mainmast and follow Antares. If Altaire is dominant, you’re not following your dream.
It was exhilarating. No longer did the boat deviate as if on a wild journey to the west coast of the South Island of New Zealand, no longer did I need to stand on tiptoes to steer.
Once at Oyster Bay in the Marlborough Sounds, there were opportunities to catch up on traditional sailing skills.
Mike, the Engineer, and First Mate Naomi both had a passion for ropework and old school navigation. Out came the old ropes and tools. They taught us rudimentary splicing and Sennett’s and of course made baggywrinkle. The feel of the line, the professional crew teaching us to respect the ship, and the old ways of the sailors instilled the seed of a new love.
We learned to navigate with paper charts, no GPS or mobile phones in those days. The nav space was for navigation, not cups of tea or coffee. We were encouraged to keep our own copy of the log in a Spirit of Adventure folder which I still have (even though a little worse for wear now).
My biggest disappointment was the heavy brass instruments weren’t for sale!
The friendship and comradery of the watch was special. Very different backgrounds, very different aspirations; all with different ways of coping in this micro-environment that would become a part of our beings. I was delighted to be one of the trainees exempt from mal de mer; instead being one of the lucky ones able to appreciate the adventure, even when cold, wet and windy! We stepped ashore at Whangawehi, where the anchor of the SS Tasmania rests. Stepping off the ship at the end of 10 days in wonder; never realising just how much of the impact this journey had had.
Life moved on.
Tall ships became a part of life, and every time one came into port, it was a mission to go and visit it and remember the Spirit. Another sailing trip, this time as a passenger on Tradewind. Visiting Whakaari / White Island, we all appreciated the raw beauty of the environment; and a newfound respect for the people who had been there before. The images of the sulphur works, now a haunting reminder of the tragic event in 2019.
Another ship and mariner with an ongoing influence; Captain Dave Mayhew would appear many years later as one of my trainers towards a Master <24m with the same fundamental message; “Feel the wind …. perseverance always wins”.
The next big adventure was Outward Bound, Anakiwa. The three days sailing on the cutter Resolution was the best part of the 21-day course. The wind, the waves, the rowing, and again the opportunity to set our course once again on the water.
Many years passed. A move to rural Queensland. Life changed somewhat, marriage and then sadly my husband Neil passed away. Another move to Tasmania.
Imagine the delight of discovering tall ships right in the heart of Hobart! Opportunity abounded. After sailing for a special day watching The King of the Derwent from Windeward Bound, a chat with Captain Sarah and the chance to join the volunteer crew of Winde. The delight of being on the boat for a Parade of Sail sailing to Hobart as the fleet sailed to the Wooden Boat Festival was special.
There was a pretty little ketch just in front of the James Craig. I took a photo of the boat, thinking about the difference between the smaller vessel and the larger Craig; wondering what it would take to sail the little one. It seemed sacrilege to see such a pretty little boat motoring up the channel and missing the opportunity to show off her sails! That “little” boat was Rhona H.
Then, crewing on Lady Nelson and the ship where I met my new partner Charles.
Three years on and 2013, the Sydney Harbour fleet review. Charles and I were fortunate to be on voyages both to and from Hobart. We knew the Rhona was for sale, and Charles had fallen in love with her years before. There is something about Bass Strait. Dreams are made, and decisions cast that chart directions that otherwise may not have been.
The Skipper of the Lady Nelson, Allen, on the (rather rough) crossing to Sydney, (but that’s another story) had some wise words. Learn from the weather, learn from your crew, learn what you’d do to improve next time; and learn from what you have each and every moment while you can. The decision was made on the return trip across Bass Strait. We bought SV Rhona H and created Heritage Sailing Tasmania. Our tag line “SV Rhona H – The Ship that Sails” was generated by one of our guests, and it goes without saying, we sail!
Life does go full circle.
The impact of the professional crew on the Spirit must be recognised. To recall their names and the experience so vividly nearly 40 years on shows the influence of those early days and the impression made.
Sailing with Tessa Duder, talking about the Spirit, and recalling the time with Captain Hylton all happened due to the Tall Ship network. Who would have thought the young girl, puzzling at the maze of lines and the tall masts, asking her Dad, “Can we go on one of them?” would ever own one of them – albeit a historic Tasmanian tall ship keeping that Spirit dream alive.
Gathering on the Bay 10th Anniversary!
The Pacific Rally 2026 is officially underway, with a fleet of nearly 190 vessels registered so far, and preparing to depart from key staging points across New Zealand & Australia in early May, marking the start of the South Pacific cruising season. Organised by Island Cruising, the flexible Pacific Rally has grown to become one of the largest organised yacht rallies in the world, attracting a diverse fleet ranging from 30-foot sailing yachts to 75-foot yachts & powerboats. Unlike traditional rallies, the flexible format means people are free to choose their own departure date, route and destinations, while still being able to tap into all the Island Cruising support and resources along the way. Over the last six months, rally participants have enjoyed regular online training sessions to help them get prepared for the adventures ahead. Then during the last two weeks, they have gathered to enjoy a range of briefings and social events at the Boat Works on Queensland’s Gold Coast, Marsden Cove Marina, and Bay of Islands Marina in New Zealand. There are additional vessels joining the rally along the way, including yachts crossing west from French Polynesia. Popular cruising grounds for rally participants include Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia, with many vessels planning onward passages to Asia or returning to New Zealand or Australia later in the season. “The Pacific Rally is about giving people the confidence to set sail,” says Viki Moore, Managing Director of Island Cruising. “We work hard to ensure participants are well-prepared, well-supported, and never feel like they are out there alone. That sense of connection makes a huge difference to both safety, fun and the overall experience.” Moore also works closely with the border officials across the Pacific to ensure everyone is prepared for the arrival formalities for each country along the way. Participants benefit from a comprehensive support framework, including pre-departure training, weather guidance, communications support, detailed guides on where to go, and access to a wide network of trusted marine partners. A strong community network — both online and on the water — is central to the rally, enhancing safety while creating a shared and social cruising experience. A key focus of the rally is responsible and respectful cruising. Through its partnership with Citizens of the Sea, some rally participants volunteer to collect Ocean eDNA samples on their passage and everyone is encouraged to engage with local communities in a culturally aware manner and contribute to environmental stewardship efforts throughout the Pacific. The success of the Pacific Rally is supported by an extensive network of marine industry partners across New Zealand and Australia & the South Pacific. These partners play a vital role in preparing vessels before they set sail and along the way, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge, equipment, and confidence needed for the journey ahead. As the fleet prepares to head offshore, anticipation is building for another season of cruising, connection, and exploration across one of the world’s most iconic sailing regions. For more information, visit: www.islandcruising.nz Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/islandcruising.nz More information about Citizens of the Sea - https://www.citizensofthesea.org/ Photo: Viki and Cecile are joined by partners from Yachting World Port Vila and Vuda Marina for the briefings at the BoatWorks
On improvements, unintended projects, and a boat that keeps evolving By Fiona Bengtsson
In a unique joint research partnership, world record explorer Lisa Blair OAM, the Australian Composites Manufacturing CRC (ACM CRC), UNSW Sydney, and Steber International are announcing the launch of a solution-focused research project: Sustainable Composites for Next Gen Boat Hulls. This two-year, $1.9 million research partnership aims to investigate the viability of Basalt Fibre (derived from volcanic rock) and current bio-resins as a scalable solution to outperform fibreglass and provide a circular solution to the growing industry problem. Following the initial research, Lisa Blair will build her new expedition yacht from these sustainable materials before setting off for her next record. Lisa is announcing her new world record attempt: ‘The Arctic Impact Project’. Lisa will be sailing in July 2027 to become the first person to sail solo, nonstop and unassisted around the Arctic Circle in one season. The 8,000 nm journey will see Lisa tackle freezing conditions, dodge icebergs and spend an estimated 3 months solo at sea. Cover photo: Research Kick Off Meeting. Left-Right Scientia Professor Gangadhara, Luke Preston, Lisa Blair OAM, Jessica Mevel Soenecs. Insert Photo Alan Steber MD Steber International who was unable to attend but is a valued partner. Below: Lisa Blair OAM.
Home is changing
WWSA's Shelley Wright shares ten of her favourite books by women solo sailors
Cruising in croc country
NEW SAILING RECORD COURSE SET IN NZ BY SAILOR LISA BLAIR
Orcas, giant swells, and stunning sunsets accompany Lisa Blair on the home run for new sailing record
Record-breaking solo sailor Lisa Blair will embark on a new World Record sailing attempt tomorrow, April 7 th at 8am (NZST) to establish an Auckland to Auckland, New Zealand, sailing record over more than 2,200 nm on a circumnavigation not yet recorded. Only last month she set a fastest time record for Sydney to Auckland as the first woman and solo monohull record of 8 days, 3hrs and 19 minutes, taking over 4 days off the existing record, to be ratified by World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC). Lisa will steer her yacht Climate Action Now from Westhaven Marina to a start off Rangitoto Island, supported by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS), then head north out to Great Barrier Island beginning a journey rounding New Zealand’s northernmost point at Cape Reinga where two oceans collide as she crosses from the Pacific Ocean to the Tasman Sea. The public can view her live tracker on the website and social posts each day. The anticipated 18-day voyage will take her down the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island heading into a predicted storm force wind system around New Plymouth where the imposing Mount Taranaki impacts the weather system before she crosses Cook Strait and into headwinds all down the West Coast of the South Island. As she reaches the south Fiordland region she will have no shelter from the Southern Ocean storms and dangerous swells before pressing south to round Stewart Island and the Southwest Cape where the sea depth dramatically reduces from 5km to 50 metres on the shelf causing noted rogue waves. Turning northwards past Dunedin headwinds are again predicted and major commercial fishing grounds with long line nets will provide a hazard before heading into major commercial and recreational boating regions all the way up the coast. This will test her resilience with 20-minute micro sleeps the whole journey home to avoid dangerous traffic and hazards. The record, to be adjudicated RNZYS in collaboration (CYCA) and WSSRC, will require her course to enclose the whole of New Zealand including all rocks and islands lying 8nm offshore – a rhumb line distance of 2,200nm, although her journey will be much longer to sail. Lisa is an ardent promoter of climate action with her several world record journeys involving the collection microplastic samples for scientific analysis and her awareness raising of ocean pollution issues as well as advocacy for solutions and change for the health of the ocean. “I want to see a happy and healthy planet and people won’t protect what they can’t understand so I try to share my love of the ocean and this planet with my records. I think adventurers have a responsibility to become story tellers and communicators,” said Lisa, who was named 2022 Australian Geographic Adventurer of the Year. Lisa’s sustainability journey first started in 2012 while sailing around the world in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. “We were more than 20 days from land sailing across the Southern Ocean from South Africa to New Zealand. I was at the helm looking out when we crested a wave and there, off our bow was a Styrofoam box floating past. We were thousands of miles from land in the most remote regions of the planet and I was seeing plastic. I couldn’t believe it.” In 2015 Lisa launched her Climate Action Now message and began collecting post it note messages from people in the public. Lisa’s yacht Climate Action Now is adorned with thousands of messages of environmental actions from members of the community. Lisa is the current world-record holder for sailing solo, non-stop and unassisted around Antarctica in 2022, breaking the record by 10 days to add to her 4 previous world records and now 2 new pending Sydney to Auckland records. In exciting news, Lisa has teamed up with film-makers Nathaniel C. T. Jackson and James Blannin-Ferguson to make a feature-length documentary tracking her ambitious and treacherous solo voyage around Antarctica. Screenings of the world premiere of Ice Maiden will be at the Doc Edge Festival which plays in Christchurch (19-30 June), Auckland (3-14 July), Wellington (3-14 July) and then nationwide via the virtual cinema (15-31 July). For more information visit docedge.nz Lisa's webpage is: www.lisablairsailstheworld.com
