Wednesday, August 29, 2012

FSS MICRONESIA's slipping - Part Two.

It's been really busy with the refit, a short stop back on Pohnpei and then off to the west coast of the US of A for a holiday so the Blog is very much behind - but I'm working on it. No doubt you want holiday photos...... I'll put up a few blogs to fill in the gaps before putting up all the holiday stuff.
 

July saw Scott back in Cairns for another four week stint to finish off the slipping of FSS MICRONESIA. It was a very busy but rewarding time, on many levels.


The crew achieved a lot in a short time and were very proud of their efforts.


One Saturday the crew and Scott went up into the hills behind Cairns and had breakfast with the beasts. Breakfast surrounded by hungry lions was certainly an eye-opener for some of the Micronesians.


I'm not sure how many of you have heard an emu's 'onk onk' noise, it's pretty unique. The lads were amazed.

 
Patting a rhino, now that's a pretty cool way to start a weekend.


The lads enjoyed the experience, and love posing for photos.


After a delayed departure the boat was finally on the way home. The first couple of days were rough as hell, with most people, including Scott bed-bound. Lyra Reef is all the lads talked about the entire slipping so we were all happy to arrive there with awesome conditions. As soon as lures hit the water the fish started coming in. A virtually untouched fishing place.


Scotts best of nine dogtooth tuna, 30kgs of pure power.


After trolling for three hours the boat stopped on top of the reef so Scott could jig. The jigs were getting hit on the way down so it was going to be mayhem. After a couple of fish, and more lost to sharks it was time to wrap it up.


Commanding Officer Stuart Peter looking forward to touching Pohnpei soil again.


The lads, very much looking forward to seeing their families.

 
That's right boys, were back. Best you stick to the rules.
 

A gift from Japan, the FSS Unity. A very sweet inshore patrol craft.

 
Always great to see the family waiting for you on the wharf.