Following the excitement of the lead-up to, then participating in Northsail, sadly it is now over, at least for another year.

From all accounts, Northsail 2001 was a highly successful adventurous training expedition that involved two 11-metre yachts, Lady Penryhn and Alexander.

The yachts sailed from Sydney up the east coast to Townsville, stopping at the ports of Coffs Harbour, Brisbane, Bundaberg and Mackay and returned along the same route.

The Northsail expedition provided an opportunity for service and civilian Defence personnel to participate in an activity that encourages them to develop individual and team skills, while providing an opportunity to make new friends or re-acquaint with old ones.

For some it was a completely new environment, in which they had to learn a whole new set of skills and language, while for others it was second nature.

The expedition provided participants with challenging situations, such as rough nights and seasickness, testing their physical and mental stamina, courtesy of Mother Nature.

However, for every challenge there is also a reward - beautiful scenery, clear blue skies, breathtaking sunsets and dazzling sunrises.

By now, all who participated will have had plenty of opportunities to regale family and friends with stories of high seas fun and adventure, as well as the not-so-fun stuff, possibly while sitting around with a glass of port in hand. The stories becoming more outrageous with each glass.

To sum up the Northsail 2001 expedition, the following quote is from a letter sent by one of our participants: "...thank you for the opportunity to participate in what I believe to be one of the best mediums of adventure training available to the ADF".

The Northsail 2001 Organising Committee would like to thank Defence Maritime Services, Sydney; Penta Comstat; Hydrographic Office; and Maritime Headquarters for their assistance and support during the conduct of this event.

In the next few months the Northsail organising committee will again call for nominations for skippers and mates for Northsail 2002, and shortly thereafter will call for crew members. So for those of you that are keen to participate, keep an eye out for it.

For further information or queries please contact FLTLT Rob Saunders, on phone 02-6265 7427, or via e-mail at robert.saunders@defence.gov.au.