with catching up for drinks together at the NCYC and dinners at the Sticky Rice , Albion Hotel and the NCYC .
It also allowed us to reconnect with Leon and Nirvana who had remained in Newcastle to allow for Leon ’ s treatment and recuperation . Leon reported that this period was a real lift for himself as he still got to enjoy fellowship with the group for a substantial number of days so that he did not feel as if he had missed out completely on the cruise . A special mention should be made in relation to Peter and Sue Crawford . Peter and Sue sailed from Broughton Island to Newcastle to support Nirvana who was having to deal with Leon ’ s hospitalisation on her own . Peter and Sue provided both Leon and Nirvana with support throughout that period until we all returned to Newcastle and up until we all left for Pittwater on 10 January . The good news is that by the time of our departure Leon was well enough to be on his own boat back to Pittwater . Another shout out also needs to go to David Williams and Bill who came from Sydney that day to sail the boat for them .
The last meal together prior to departure the next day ( Friday 10 January 2025 ) was at Leon ’ s favourite venue , the Albion Hotel .