The Barrier

So, I have some back blipping to do. Yes, I know …

Right now however, I am on Great Barrier Island. Why you ask? Well, my father-in-law is trying to sell a divine property, but a few months ago it sustained substantial storm damage, 300mm of rain in 3 hrs I believe. Slips, wharf damaged, bridges washed out, the works. It’s bad, but actually, not as bad as I imagined.

So I am here with my father-in-law, who isn’t too well. Seems like he is coping, just, with being here, but is house bound. And as usual, on a remote island totally off-grid, we’ve already had our share of problems, in only 24hrs! Inflatable dingy damaged, yet to repair. Haines Hunter used as a ferry to Fitzroy, flat batteries, charged now, but still a question why they went flat. Main house generator, not charging batteries, but now resolved, etc. …

However, we did get carpet replaced in one cottage thanks to Tom who borrowed a boat to get here!. Track to wharf cleared entirely, and much wood chain sawed. Chalet paths all cleared, and well, actually, just a bunch of other stuff. Started at 8, finished at 6.30, buggered! I’m on my own in terms of work, but that’s OK.

Then I went fishing, perfect evening, as you can see. 4 snapper, which I threw back, on the border of legal maybe, but couldn’t be bothered fileting!

Back to the house, cook dinner, a wine, and many phone calls to recount the day. Jim wasn’t so well, he went to bed …

Tomorrow is even bigger, pick up the digger and new wharf piles on the barge. I have no idea how were going to achieve this, but I have a strong feeling I‘ll be learning to drive a digger. Excited and nervous at that!

Overall, a good day despite the challenges. The challenges and hard work makes me feel alive, like nothing else.

Great Barrier in the foreground, Little Barrier in the back ...