Actually your right, it was Feb 2001, I took the date from the computer “modification info” however Feb 2001 is correct.
From memory I think you were the first one out, with me not too long after. The current was amazing, if you were lucky enough to ride the wave in, the out going tide would just suck you back out even further. I think I was like you, “lucky” enough to get that one “longer” riding wave and then being able to get to water “shallow” enough to try to stand up. Not that I’ve ever been in a fast flowing river before, but the water running out was so strong, my toes were like fingers digging into the sand, and leaning against the water. To fall in, or to loose grip would’ve been like rolling down a hill. Back into the wash. I still recall looking back and seeing the other fella, who was obviously in all sorts of bother, he looked at me as if he was saying “don’t leave, help”, but I couldn’t do anything, just watching him getting pummelled in the surf and desperately hanging onto his rig, which was still all connected. No kidding I felt as if I was abandoning him there, but there was nothing I could do. All I could do was get out of the water and watch the lifesavers arrive to bring him out. Which was lucky they were alerted, otherwise I'm sure this fella would've fallen victim to that area.
I don’t know how close we came to not coming back, but I had a different outlook on life etc, after that. You soon realize that thing you thought were important aren’t really that important after all.
The one thing I wanted to do, which I never got around to was to thank the lifesavers that attended. As I wrote earlier, they even later retrieved my rig, which I suppose wasn’t really necessary. So if they happen to read this; “Thank you” or if anyone knows of them, please pass on my gratitude.
I live in western Qld, hence I don’t get a chance to sail a hell of a lot, really te last time I sail would be about 2 years ago back in Yorkeys. I came close to changing over to the dark side (kiteboarding) even buying one, which I eventually sold as I’m just too far away from the water. So I’ll stick with the sailboard. I might be a gumby when I get back on the board again, but at least I’ve got some idea of what I’m doing.
I like many others here knew Craig as a close friend and great person. He was so strong, calm and dependable that it makes his passing so hard to accept. He leaves a big hole in our lives.
After what has happened and from reading all the posts here I won't be sailing at Caloundra bar on an ebb tide or dodgy wind. Craig was not foolish or complacent, if it caught him out, it can catch anyone.
While on the subject of treacherous locations, I had a bad experience at Elliot Heads about 12 years ago and ended up dumping my smashed rig to paddle to safety. There can also be a strong current from the river on an outgoing tide and although the swell is generally not so heavy it is very confused so recovering from a fall can be very difficult in the relentless white water.
To Sharyn and young Cameron, Kay and I offer all our love and support.
To Craig mate we will always miss you. I don't know about God and Heaven and that but I can't help thinking and hoping there is a grand scheme and now you're a part of it.
Hi everyone
This message is on behalf of Sharyn, Craig's wife and my sister. Sharyn has read your messages and has asked me to send her thanks to all, for the kind words and messages posted on this site. Unfortunately she is too upset to respond personally but has asked that I send her regards on her behalf.
Sharyn is obviously devastated but has found some comfort in your messages, as have I and the rest of the family.
She and Cameron have a long struggle ahead to come to terms with their loss but they are taking everything one day at a time.
Sharyn would particularly like to thank all the friends from Cairns and Atherton who travelled the long distance to attend Craig's funeral this week. She has been overwhelmed by everyone's kindness.
Thanks and please take care.
