Troy Blatchford proposed on "Whites Bay" Beach on New Years Eve 2008. See the diamond ring! A memorable occassion.Welcome to our very first blog of "Middle Percy Island"
Wednesday 25th March 2009
Wednesday 25th March 2009
We have just transferred the three new baby chicks and their mum into their new predator chicken run. Hopefully they will now grow, like their month old cousin, and eventually supply us with our daily eggs. Ones unlucky enough to be males, are destined for someones cooking pot!
I wonder how many yachties remember Andys chooks. Roast-a-bag was a great invention, that made them a lot less chewy! I must add those to the shopping list, as it'll improve the peacock too.
Two other welcome additions to the "Island" are our two kid goats called Bella and Snow born on 5th November to Zena (raised last year on the "Island"). Zena has painted horns to identify her from the Feral Goats. Note that Zenas' twin kids may have had different fathers; Bella is the splitting image of her mother, a Toggenburg, but Snow must've had a Saanan father!
Bella in her "cubby hole", a bee super on its side!
Snow, sitting on the salt-lick block, and Zena, their mum.
Thursday 26th
The baby chicks escaped an unwelcome visitor;- a Spotted Python, who was found sniffing around their hatching area. Ernst caught it deftly, put it in a hessian bag overnight, and I took for a trip to the other side of the "Island". Poor thing was in a state of shock so unlikely to return. Hopefully, its' new residence of fig trees and rocks is everything a Python would wish for !
Friday 28th
West Bay is being 'upgraded' by the installation of a Latrine facility; between the "A-frame" and "Tree House". Ernst was the prime sand mover and designer, managing to dig it in one day. A single throne is planned. A fibreglass tank was set in the 2meters hole, with the help of visiting yachties, Joshua and Cat (sorry no photo). Joshua first visited the "Island" on his fathers boat in 1980's; so now there's two generations of boat names in the "A-frame".
This preparation is in expectation of the start of 'the working bee' to reroof the "A-frame" commencing the 10-13th April Public Holiday.
We also plan to connect up to the water tank, situated by many helpers last season, above the "A-frame",". It was eventually filled when the creek finally flowed last month. This will provide water for the "A-frame" sink and a beach shower, if used sparingly throughout the cruising season.
This is so exciting, as I rememeber my first visit to cousin Andy on "Percy Island" in 1985. In addition to the wonderful "A-frame", I was suprised to see an outdoor shower on the beach!
The initial intoduction to "Percy Is." was a B-B-Q of fresh fish with yachites at the "A-frame". Followed by a work-out with Andy. Andy valiantly dug out the pit for the grand 'duel throned' latrine, while I painted the "Tree House" windows. As the place was originally for children, the colour was a cheery yellow and green gloss. They have weathered extremely well; so it must have been a good quality paint.
I am thrilled to be able to help to re-establish such a wonderful tradition at "West Bay" and like to think of Andy who wanted to benefit those folks who go off the beaten track to explore the beauty of the Queensland coast.
This is all made possible by the faith, support and genorosity of my husband John Morris
and with the encouragement of the Cruising Fraternity who show themselves to be true "Friends of Percy" and my cousin Andy Martin. that man of vision and many suprises.
Please refer to "Percy Island Story" in "The Coastal Passage" Newsletters and on the Internet http://www.thecoastalpassage.com/ and the Hicklings private Publication at the request of Andy, about the "History of Percy Island Past and Present "(available on CD) for a fuller story, and pictures of Andy in his prime. Copies of the History book/CD available on request.
Post Script
I am devastated to have to sadly inform you that the pony "Beauty" was lost to Colic two weeks ago. She was the last of the prodginy of the Whites pack ponies and was born 10 years ago. Jon and Lys Hickling and the boys were here, and trained her up. Although, not suitable for breeding , as her father, "Rocky", was also her brother, she was a great character. Her mother was "Dainty" and Grandmother "Mango". A Mango tree will be planted in her memory.
Two other welcome additions to the "Island" are our two kid goats called Bella and Snow born on 5th November to Zena (raised last year on the "Island"). Zena has painted horns to identify her from the Feral Goats. Note that Zenas' twin kids may have had different fathers; Bella is the splitting image of her mother, a Toggenburg, but Snow must've had a Saanan father!
Bella in her "cubby hole", a bee super on its side!
Snow, sitting on the salt-lick block, and Zena, their mum.
Thursday 26th
The baby chicks escaped an unwelcome visitor;- a Spotted Python, who was found sniffing around their hatching area. Ernst caught it deftly, put it in a hessian bag overnight, and I took for a trip to the other side of the "Island". Poor thing was in a state of shock so unlikely to return. Hopefully, its' new residence of fig trees and rocks is everything a Python would wish for !
Friday 28th
West Bay is being 'upgraded' by the installation of a Latrine facility; between the "A-frame" and "Tree House". Ernst was the prime sand mover and designer, managing to dig it in one day. A single throne is planned. A fibreglass tank was set in the 2meters hole, with the help of visiting yachties, Joshua and Cat (sorry no photo). Joshua first visited the "Island" on his fathers boat in 1980's; so now there's two generations of boat names in the "A-frame".This preparation is in expectation of the start of 'the working bee' to reroof the "A-frame" commencing the 10-13th April Public Holiday.
We also plan to connect up to the water tank, situated by many helpers last season, above the "A-frame",". It was eventually filled when the creek finally flowed last month. This will provide water for the "A-frame" sink and a beach shower, if used sparingly throughout the cruising season.
This is so exciting, as I rememeber my first visit to cousin Andy on "Percy Island" in 1985. In addition to the wonderful "A-frame", I was suprised to see an outdoor shower on the beach!The initial intoduction to "Percy Is." was a B-B-Q of fresh fish with yachites at the "A-frame". Followed by a work-out with Andy. Andy valiantly dug out the pit for the grand 'duel throned' latrine, while I painted the "Tree House" windows. As the place was originally for children, the colour was a cheery yellow and green gloss. They have weathered extremely well; so it must have been a good quality paint.
I am thrilled to be able to help to re-establish such a wonderful tradition at "West Bay" and like to think of Andy who wanted to benefit those folks who go off the beaten track to explore the beauty of the Queensland coast.
This is all made possible by the faith, support and genorosity of my husband John Morris
and with the encouragement of the Cruising Fraternity who show themselves to be true "Friends of Percy" and my cousin Andy Martin. that man of vision and many suprises.Please refer to "Percy Island Story" in "The Coastal Passage" Newsletters and on the Internet http://www.thecoastalpassage.com/ and the Hicklings private Publication at the request of Andy, about the "History of Percy Island Past and Present "(available on CD) for a fuller story, and pictures of Andy in his prime. Copies of the History book/CD available on request.
Post Script
I am devastated to have to sadly inform you that the pony "Beauty" was lost to Colic two weeks ago. She was the last of the prodginy of the Whites pack ponies and was born 10 years ago. Jon and Lys Hickling and the boys were here, and trained her up. Although, not suitable for breeding , as her father, "Rocky", was also her brother, she was a great character. Her mother was "Dainty" and Grandmother "Mango". A Mango tree will be planted in her memory.
While we were preparing for Cyclone Hamish, she got her head into the Chook grain; it's also possible she suffered from a poisonous plant that appears after the rains. Sadly the resulting Colic was tragically irreversable. The Vet was as helpful as she could be, but an operation was need to save "Beauty". It is on such occassions, one is very aware of the vulnerablity of living in an isolated area, without a helicopter, or large fast boat able to cope with rough weather.
"Beauty" was very companionable, and a great friends with Zena. She would come around daily for a feed and a chat. I miss her terribly, as she, the goats and dogs would join me for a walk about the "Island". "Beauty" loved to be in the lead; she would suddenly appear and gallop past with a snicker of joy
, dodging the dogs and goats.
The camera shy-dog and its owners, "Beauty" in relaxation mode
"Beauty" and "Zena""Beauty" was very companionable, and a great friends with Zena. She would come around daily for a feed and a chat. I miss her terribly, as she, the goats and dogs would join me for a walk about the "Island". "Beauty" loved to be in the lead; she would suddenly appear and gallop past with a snicker of joy
, dodging the dogs and goats.
The camera shy-dog and its owners, "Beauty" in relaxation mode
The animals looking for tucker; the are not shy when foods about!
ACCESS FROM WHITES BAY
On a more upbeat note, the "Whites Bay Trail" is now signposted . It is 2.5 Km from the "Homestead"; mainly along a tree covered route. It is accessible from climbing the rocks in-between the beaches. Follow the red and white markers which hang from the trees.
All adventurers are welcome to visit for a chat and to catch up on the History of the "Island". Only a drink is available , until the garden is re-established to full on production again. Honey is still produced by the disease free and hard working bees for purchase.
WHATEVER THE WEATHER, YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME TO VISIT OR SIMPLY TO ENJOY WALKING THE BEACHES OR THE ISLAND.
As far as I am aware, there are no poisonous snakes, and the feral goats keep the grass and weeds short enough for exploring the whole Island.
It is possible to come and stay for longer periods, to help with jobs on hand, or simply to pull weeds as you wander. Thank you for your interest in "Percy Island" and the love of freedom it offers, A Small Vege Garden; fenced & prepared
On a more upbeat note, the "Whites Bay Trail" is now signposted . It is 2.5 Km from the "Homestead"; mainly along a tree covered route. It is accessible from climbing the rocks in-between the beaches. Follow the red and white markers which hang from the trees.
All adventurers are welcome to visit for a chat and to catch up on the History of the "Island". Only a drink is available , until the garden is re-established to full on production again. Honey is still produced by the disease free and hard working bees for purchase.
WHATEVER THE WEATHER, YOU ARE ALWAYS WELCOME TO VISIT OR SIMPLY TO ENJOY WALKING THE BEACHES OR THE ISLAND.
As far as I am aware, there are no poisonous snakes, and the feral goats keep the grass and weeds short enough for exploring the whole Island.
It is possible to come and stay for longer periods, to help with jobs on hand, or simply to pull weeds as you wander. Thank you for your interest in "Percy Island" and the love of freedom it offers, A Small Vege Garden; fenced & prepared
and your responsible visit to its shores.
NOTABLY WE CANNOT TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DAMAGE OR ACCIDENT TO YOU OR YOUR POSSESSIONS WHILST VISITING "MIDDLE PERCY ISLAND".
NOTABLY WE CANNOT TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY DAMAGE OR ACCIDENT TO YOU OR YOUR POSSESSIONS WHILST VISITING "MIDDLE PERCY ISLAND".
