Its been a big few weeks since our last post. Some major decisions have been made and our bank account is much reduced as a result.

First we ordered the portlights and overhead ventilation hatches for the sleeping cabins so that we would have them on hand to check for size, as we fit the decking. Good quality hatches are breathtakingly expensive, but there is nothing worse than leaks over the bunks, so we bit the bullet and ordered high-grade Vetus hatches. While we were at it we also ordered the Maxwell Anchor winch recommended by the designer, as they are distributed by the same company.

We have also ordered all our deck gear, mast and rigging. Combined with the sails, this represents nearly a third of the entire build budget, so it was a hold-your-breath moment when we placed the order and paid the deposit. Fortunately All Yacht Spars in Brisbane have built many Easy rigs, so can supply ours in kit form to the designers specifications. This has saved us hours of work. We have ordered the standard rig, but with a slightly taller mast: provision for a screecher, if budget allows.

A welcome distraction was a visit by Haley, Sam & brand new grandson Judah. It was a special time with the kids, especially for Deb who misses them terribly.

Back at the build we installed the bridal bolts into the fore-beam and lifted it back up to be fixed in place.

Actually, we are pleased to be finished with the fore-deck area. As we have previously mentioned it’s a difficult area to access. Narrow and high off the ground.

After installing the fore-decks we fitted the webb locker deck. This incorporates the anchor locker, so some substantial re-enforcing for the anchor winch and main mooring cleat had to be fabricated.

Now that the fore-deck and webb locker decking are done, we can start fitting the stringers for the sleeping cabins.