paradise at Middle Percy

The trip over to Middle Percy Island demonstrated winds of 10-15kts from the SE, so we were reasonably relaxed when we set the anchor at lunch time in West Bay. The vision was splendid- jewel like water, clear enough to see the sandy bottom and an inviting white sandy beach with the famous A-frame beckoning from amongst the coconut palms.

We all jumped into the dinghy, excited and eager to explore. Before we hit the beach we encountered a big, wet, brown dog who waded out to meet us- the girls didn't wait to see if it was friend or foe-they jumped off the dinghies bow and splashed and hooted to the beach....ahh freedom! Bronte was friend, her tail whipping about so much with pleasure it is a wonder that she didn't suffer whip lash of her rear end!

There were few other people about, the one couple we met decided to head out early the next morning when we asked them if they has heard of the low that Kay had spoken about, even though they hadn't heard of any weather concerns. What is it about this place that we don't know?

We spent the afternoon investigating the A-frame, looking at mementos left by boaties and surprised that we recognised so many names. Marg, who previously thought the whole idea a little unappealing even had a tear in her eye when she saw some of the poignant tokens from the 1960's. We vowed to leave an appropriate reminder of Manatee.

The next day was stunning, we spent the morning making our Manatee token (it took days)before heading over to the beach where Jacki spent the afternoon mucking about like a dog with Bronte, while Ruby, Marg and AK enjoyed more noble pursuits-like sun and water worship, bird watching and planning leisure activities for the following day.

is this paradise or what?

Another glorious day saw us exploring the island's lagoon in the morning, cooking lunch over a fire and then spending the afternoon swimming, walking and reading. Although the lagoon is a reasonable size, a sand bank closes access at low tide.

view of Manatee from within the lagoon

Boats came and went from the anchorage, we met lots of friendly and social people and we all had a chillingly good time! The girls were more relaxed after spending time free ranging and exhausting their pent up energy (so many islands/so many of them National Parks!)

We met Cate (the leaseholder) on the beach one afternoon and scored an invite for lunch at the homestead the next day. We were happy with Manatee's remembrance sculpture so tearfully hung her from the rafters of the A-frame where she can gaze out to sea, gently blowing in the breeze, ensuring constant movement.