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FISHING REPORT – September 22, 2023

Sand Whiting has been the most targeted fish this month, with lots of anglers managing to find a feed. Blood worms, yabbies, squid, and prawns are working well. Favourite land base spots have been Red Beach, Skirmish Point, in front of IGA, Sandstone Point Flats, Turner Camp Road and White Patch. Fishing the run-up tide has worked best from low to high as the whiting work their way up the banks following the tide. Boat anglers drifting Lime Pocket, Red Beach and in 8 to 9 meters depth of Woorim are also coming back with good catches. Light lines 4 to 6lb on whippy rods are the favourite. QLD rules allow 30 limit and a minimum of 23cm long, Tailor schools have been smaller than usual this time of the year, I believe the lack of rain has been the main reason, the bait hasn’t entered the passage hardy heads being the primary target for tailor and snapper.

Instead, we have extra-large tailor in small schools chasing mullet and whiting which is a great trade-off, A lot of Tailors are lost at the boat as they are just too powerful to muscle into the boat. Recommend upsizing the line to 30lb to have a chase of landing these brutes. Snapper is late coming into the passage but again without the bait in the passage, the snapper are feeding out in the bay, With good catches being reported around Moreton, Mud and Peel Island. Bongaree Jetty has seen many fish species caught, and always a surprise what can be landed in the Michael and I managing 70cm plus Flathead land base, ganged or Snell pilchards and squid work well. I love the Double Clutch when working the sand bars. Flathead has been a bit quiet, with mainly bigger units around. The low tide seems to be working best. QLD 2.0 rules for Dusty Flathead are a minimum size of 40cm with a Maximum size of 75cm with flathead growing to 1.3 meters, 5 Possession Limit. middle of the day. Mick caught and landed a 75cm Mulloway off the jetty. Great Catch.

Winelander – September 22, 2023

In the 1980’s Australia had a huge lake of wine so much so that a lot of the premium juice was finding its way into the four litre casks which of course made them outstanding value at around four dollars for a cask. The answer according to the South Australian Government was to pay the wineries $5 per vine that was pulled out which effectively got rid of many of old vines and restored the land back to being just a pasture. Several years later Australian wines took off all over the world and we had a huge shortage so it doesn’t pay to make a kneejerk action, if that action had been delayed the industry would have benefitted enormously. This brings me to the current state of the industry which has suffered since questions were asked of China in regards to the pandemic outbreak and which led to the introduction of huge tariffs effectively shutting down our business over there resulting in an oversupply here and insufficient world markets to pick up the slack. As China removes the tariffs on various products, which at the moment doesn’t include wine, even if it did it would not be enough to prevent Australia’s wine industry facing years of oversupply. According to a Rabobank report says, even in a “best case Scenario’ with tariffs removed this year and Chinese consumption of Australian wine recovering quickly, this would not be a panacea with Australia’s wine industry still facing at least two years to work through the current wine surplus.

While this isn’t good news for Australian winemakers there is an upside for consumers with the oversupply keeping prices of many quality Australian red wines at competitive levels.

To give you an idea of just how much wine is lying around in Australian wineries at the moment it equates to 859 Olympic swimming pools and each pool contains around 660,000 gallons, I think you now get to see the scale of the problem. When the China-Australian Free Trade Agreement was signed in 2015 and reduced the tariff on Australian wine from 14% to zero it helped double Australian market share in China from 12% to 24% which was mostly premium quality red wines. Before the tariff embargo wine sales accounted for 18% of Australia’s export volume and 40% of the export value at its peak.

To make matters worse the introduction of tariffs coincided with an exceptional growing season and the 2021 vintage increased 36% year on year which even without the tariffs would probably cause an oversupply.

Added to this the Chinese have begun to transition away from wine as part of a broader decline in alcohol consumption however the consumption of wine has been greater than beer or spirits. Also in the United Kingdom Australian wine imports have fallen from their peak in 2020 as off premise sale decline following COVID reopening and the effect of rising inflation which peaked at around 10% earlier this year. Although sales to the UK and US will remain key export markets for Australian wine UK Government imposts involving higher duties of 20% on a bottle of Australian wine will probably have an impact on sales. Once again to offset the oversupply situation there is now talk of reducing acreage to reduce the amount of wine being produced unless new markets can be found. One of the largest impacts will be on contract winemakers who rely on the larger companies buying their wine when sales are at their highest so there are uncertain times ahead.

This week Liquorland have Hardy’s Tintara out at $18 which is about $12 down on the normal price, Sisters Run Cabernet Sauvignon 2 bottles for $30 instead of $40. The Grant Burge ‘5th Generation’ Cabernet Merlot is still $12 The Wynns Coonawarra ‘The Sidings’ Cabernet Sauvignon is terrific value at $15 and for something really special The St. Hugo Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon is $42. It would appear that there are many terrific wine offers out there and a visit to Dan Murphys or First Choice Liquor would probably be the way to go.

Cheers,

Philip Arlidge
[email protected]

Peanut Butter Drip Cake

For The Sponge
80g dark cocoa powder (we used Green & Blacks)
350g light muscovado sugar
1 tbsp espresso powder
300ml boiling water
300g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing
150g dark chocolate, roughly chopped
Six medium free-range eggs, fridge-cold, beaten
1 tbsp vanilla bean extract
220g plain flour
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 tsp baking powder
For the peanut buttercream
225g unsalted butter, softened
250g smooth peanut butter
375g icing sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp fine sea salt
2 tbsp milk

Method for the chocolate ganache
150g dark chocolate (at least 70%
cocoa solids), finely chopped
300ml double cream
You’ll also need 3 x 20cm sandwich tins, greased and base-lined with non-stick baking paper & an electric mixer

The Bribie Islander Gloss Magazine September 22, 2023 Issue 200

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The Bribie Islander Gloss Magazine September 8, 2023 Issue 199

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The Bribie Islander Gloss Magazine August 25, 2023 Issue 198

Issue 198 OUT NOW. Get all your community news and information. Bribie Islands only community gloss magazine NOW EVERY TWO WEEKS! – Articles on boating, camping, fishing, life, drama, travel destinations, sports, and what to see and do on Bribie Island. Covering charities, organizations, places, children’s activities, arts and crafts, tourist destinations, heritage parks, technology, science, music, gardening, and much more.

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Retirement Village vs. Aged Care Home: What is the difference?

Aging is a natural and inevitable part of life. It is a process that brings about physical, mental, and emotional changes but also brings experience and the opportunity for personal growth. The support of the family and connections from the community are among the most important factors in helping elders embrace the changes and the challenges that come with it. By recognising the value of aging and the contributions that older individuals make to society, we can create a more inclusive and supportive community for people of all ages.

Maintaining independence in the aging process is crucial for the overall well-being of older individuals. Preserving autonomy allows seniors to continue making choices that align with their preferences, fostering a sense of control and dignity. This independence extends beyond physical aspects to include decision-making regarding their daily lives, health, and social interactions. Empowering older individuals to stay self-reliant not only enhances their quality of life but also contributes to their mental and emotional resilience. It enables them to face the challenges of aging with a positive mindset and a sense of accomplishment.

Additionally, when a community values and supports the independence of its older members, it creates an environment where seniors feel respected and included, promoting a healthier and more vibrant community for people of all ages.

Levels of Assistance

Retirement villages and aged care homes (also known as nursing homes or residential aged care facilities) are two options available for seniors who require assistance in their daily lives. While both offer support and services to older adults, there are distinct differences between them, particularly in terms of the levels of assistance provided.

The Definition and Purpose of Retirement Village

Retirement villages, also known as retirement communities or active adult communities, provide independent living options for seniors who are still capable of taking care of themselves but want a community setting with various amenities and services. These villages typically offer apartments, townhouses, or detached homes specifically designed for older adults. Residents in retirement villages have access to a range of recreational facilities such as swimming pools, golf courses, fitness centres, libraries, and social activities like clubs and classes.

In retirement villages, seniors often have the freedom to come and go as they please. They can live independently within the community while enjoying the convenience of on-site services like housekeeping, maintenance, transportation assistance, and security. Depending on the specific village, additional support services may be available for those who require assistance with daily tasks or personal care.

Retirement villages aim to provide seniors with a comfortable and supportive living environment as they transition into retirement. The purpose of retirement villages is to promote an active and fulfilling lifestyle for seniors while also ensuring their safety and well-being.

Unlike government-subsidised aged care homes, retirement villages cater to seniors who are still capable of living independently but may require some assistance with daily tasks. Residents can enjoy the freedom and privacy of their own living space while also having access to additional support if needed.

While the costs of retirement village accommodation can vary, they typically involve an initial entry payment as well as ongoing fees for maintenance and services. This allows seniors to enjoy a comfortable and convenient lifestyle with access to various amenities and support.

The Definition and Purpose of Aged Care Homes

On the other hand, aged care homes (also known as nursing homes or residential care facilities) cater to individuals who require more extensive assistance with their day-to-day activities due to physical or cognitive limitations. Aged care homes serve the purpose of supporting older Australians who can no longer live fully independently and require assistance with daily activities. These facilities offer accommodation, personal care, and specialised care tailored to the individual needs of their residents.

Services provided in aged care homes like St. Marys’ Aged Care include 24-hour supervised care by trained staff members. They provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, medication management, meal preparation, and mobility support, as well as services like physiotherapy, occupational therapy, etc. Aged care homes are equipped with medical facilities and special equipment to meet the healthcare needs of their residents. They often have nurses or healthcare professionals available on-site around the clock to monitor health conditions and provide necessary medical attention. For those with more complex care needs, specialised care such as dementia care and palliative care is also available.

Aged care homes in Australia are funded and regulated by the government to ensure that older people have access to support and quality care when needed. There are also options available for younger people with disabilities, including the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which provides funding and support for individuals under 65 with a permanent and significant disability.

What Else to Consider?

The decision between a retirement village and an aged care home depends on an individual’s current health status and level of independence. Retirement villages are suitable for seniors who are still independent and active, seeking a community atmosphere with various amenities and minimal assistance. Aged care homes, on the other hand, cater to individuals who require more comprehensive care due to physical or cognitive limitations.

It’s essential for seniors and their families to carefully consider their current needs and potential future requirements when choosing between retirement village living and aged care homes. Consulting with healthcare professionals or senior living experts can help make an informed decision that best suits individual circumstances and preferences.

When choosing an independent living arrangement, seniors should consider factors such as funding, the level of care needed, location, and the range of services provided. Affordability, proximity to family and friends, accessibility of medical facilities, and the availability of recreational activities are also important considerations.

Ultimately, the best independent living option for seniors is one that aligns with their individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

Providing comprehensive care for seniors with physical or cognitive limitations

Comprehensive care services for seniors with physical or cognitive limitations include a range of options to address their specific needs. In-home care services offer personalised support, including assistance with daily activities, medication management, and companionship. Community support programs provide social engagement and recreational activities tailored to the abilities of seniors with disabilities, promoting overall well-being and mental stimulation. For those requiring more intensive care, aged care facilities offer professional nursing care, therapy services, and a safe, supportive environment.

Care services for seniors with disabilities extend beyond medical and physical support, addressing their emotional, social, and cognitive needs. Accessible transportation, specialised equipment, and home modifications ensure seniors with mobility challenges can maintain their independence. Respite services enable carers and family members to take a break while their loved ones receive the care and attention they require. By understanding the specific needs of seniors with disabilities, comprehensive care services provide a holistic approach to support their health and quality of life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision between a retirement village and an aged care home depends on the individual’s current health status and level of independence. Retirement villages are suitable for independent seniors seeking a community atmosphere with minimal assistance, while aged care homes cater to those requiring more comprehensive care due to physical or cognitive limitations.

It is crucial for seniors and their families to carefully consider their current needs and potential future requirements when making this decision. Consulting with healthcare professionals or senior living experts can help ensure an informed decision that best suits individual circumstances and preferences.

Ultimately, the best independent living option for seniors is one that aligns with their individual needs, preferences, and lifestyles. Whether it be through in-home care services, retirement village communities, or aged care facilities, comprehensive care services are available to address the specific needs of seniors with disabilities and promote their independence, well-being and quality of life.

The Bribie Islander Gloss Magazine August 11, 2023 Issue 197

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Baked Chicken with Lemon Rice

INGREDIENTS

4 Serves*
6 chicken thighs, skin on and bone in
3 spring onions
3 tbsp lemon juice, and zest
5 lemon slices
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp parsley, chopped
1 tbsp dill, chopped
3 garlic cloves, crushed
1 1/2 cups long grain rice
2 cups chicken stock

METHOD

Preheat oven to 200C Season chicken with salt, pepper and drizzle over 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. In a heavy based ovenproof pan or skillet over medium high heat, drizzle olive oil and cook chicken thighs skin side down for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, turn and seal the other side. When both sides are brown, transfer chicken to a plate and set aside. Bring the pan back to heat and drizzle a little more olive oil. Cook spring onions and garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, add rice, chicken stock, lemon zest, dried oregano and the other tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir to combine then add the lemon slices, the chicken and its rested juices back into the pan. Bring to a simmer, cover with a lid or wrap tightly with foil and remove from heat. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for a further 5-10 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked. Remove from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes before stirring through the parsley and dill through the rice.

Simple Ways To Teach Your Children About Healthy Living Practices

Raising a family, especially young children, is never easy. It may seem simpler to let go of healthy choices because of the many struggles that come along. But maintaining a healthy lifestyle is too important. You can make this easier by working on teaching good behaviours at a very young age.

Limited Screen Time – Today’s world has addicting technology. Young people are using some form of electronics all the time. Parents may help their kids use screen time in a positive way that improves daily life by modelling good behaviour.

Getting Enough Sleep – Doctors claim that developing children need a regular schedule and routine to get the most out of their nighttime sleep. Your youngster will be well-rested and rested if deadlines and wake-up hours are consistently followed. Even on weekends!

Exercise – Regular exercise is a path children should naturally take because they play, run, jump, climb, and play longer than adults. You can get youngsters moving by encouraging them to engage in exercise that seems like play. Additionally, youngsters can start moving without going to the gym. Instead, they can go to a playground or park. Flexibility, strength, and endurance should all be included in the greatest kid-friendly exercises. Kids can learn about agility and speed from playing tag and competing in foot races. Running, basketball and other endurance-building activities are beneficial for young athletes. Tumbling and yoga both improve flexibility.

Always Remain Optimistic – Encouraging your kids to adopt an optimistic outlook on life can significantly improve their well-being and resilience. Try to celebrate small triumphs and tell youngsters what they can do rather than what they can’t.

Research Food Labelling – Examine the nutrition information on your child’s favourite packaged snack labels to teach them about nutrition. A few key elements of the label, such as the quantity of sugar, saturated fat, calories, and serving size, can be your main points of interest. A food must identify its ingredients in descending order by quantity if it has more than one. If sugar is the first item stated, sugar constitutes most of the ingredients in that snack.

Never Force Them To Clean Their Plate – Children need to understand their hunger characteristics. The clean-plate rule was prevalent while many parents were growing up, but it doesn’t teach youngsters to understand their body cues. Children are less prone to overeat if they recognize and acknowledge their sensations of fullness.

Lead By Example – Your children will copy you. Your influence on your children’s physical activity as a parent or carer is very significant. Rather than spending time on your phones or watching television. Engage in behaviours you would have your children copy. Like going for a walk! Avoid Smoking – Your child is more likely to get asthma, allergies, ear infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia if exposed to smoking. If stopped immediately, smoking in your child’s presence is not possible. Don’t smoke in the car; go outside instead.

Get Creative With Dental Health And Hygiene – Encourage kids to brush their plush animals’ teeth and explain the value of flossing to them. Children can understand the importance of dental hygiene by reading one of their favourite books or learning about a character getting ready for an appointment. On the other hand, parents can also get more knowledge on the subject by reading dental hygiene books.

Pros Of Healthy Habits Among Kids – Encouraging a healthy lifestyle in your children has many benefits:

  • Healthy habits help channel their energy into the right things
  • Healthy practices like exercise can sharpen their minds
  • Practicing healthy living can help them be in touch with their emotions
  • Healthy habits assist in the maintenance of healthy weight

When you become a parent, you begin to consider what “being healthy” means and how to impart it to your child. Every action you take in front of your child won’t always serve as the best example because nobody is perfect. You could be shocked to find your youngster correctly pointing you out if they start making good decisions early and frequently.

Cutting Edge Elegance: The Ultimate Professional Hair Scissors for Precision and Style

Precision and style go hand in hand in the field of hairstyling. Every professional hairstylist is aware of the significance of having the proper equipment to produce faultless cuts and attractive hairstyles. Professional barber Scissors are one of the most important tools. These state-of-the-art tools are made to offer the highest levels of comfort, control, and precision, enabling hairstylists to realize their creative visions.

It is crucial to look at the anatomy of professional hair Scissors in order to properly comprehend their superiority. The blades are often crafted from Japanese steel, which is famous for its toughness and sharpness, or premium stainless steel. Different cutting methods and styles can be accommodated by changing the blades’ length and form. The pivot point, which is frequently adjustable, enables the Scissors to open and close smoothly, minimizing stress on the stylist’s hand and wrist. The comfort of the finger and thumb rings can be adjusted to suit personal tastes. These components work in unison to provide a tool that guarantees accuracy, control, and comfort throughout the haircutting procedure. For hairstylists and their clients, using professional Scissors has many benefits. First off, their razor-sharp blades provide clear, exact cuts that produce well-defined haircuts. Because the ergonomic design reduces hand and wrist fatigue, stylists can work continuously without experiencing any difficulty. These Scissors’ exceptional cutting ability also boosts efficiency, allowing for time savings without sacrificing quality. Professional Scissors are additionally made to lessen hair damage, minimize the occurrence of split ends, and maintain the general health of the hair. Clients are pleased, and the stylist builds on their reputation for expertise.

Professional Scissors shears not only function exceptionally well but also have stunning designs that exude class and sophistication. Numerous manufacturers provide a variety of styles, from traditional to modern, making it possible for hairstylists to pick Scissors that complement their individual tastes and salon aesthetic. Some Scissors have cutting-edge features including finger rests for additional stability, ergonomic offset handles to ease hand strain, and ergonomic handles with anti-slip coatings. These characteristics help the overall aesthetic appeal of the Scissors while also enhancing utility.

Proper upkeep and care are necessary to preserve the longevity and performance of professional hair Scissors. To keep the Scissors in top shape, regular cleaning, lubrication, and occasional sharpening are required. To keep the shears cutting-edge sharp, manufacturers frequently offer maintenance advice and care instructions, and many even provide sharpening and servicing services. Hairstylists can keep producing outstanding results and extend the life of their hair Scissors by devoting time and effort to maintaining this priceless equipment.

The use of the best professional hair Scissors boosts a hairstylist’s confidence while also improving their technical proficiency. Stylists experience a sense of professionalism and pride when they hold a wellmade, premium instrument in their hands. Their clients feel this confidence, which fosters a happy environment and increases trust. Clients may tell if the hairstylist is committed and skilled because they can sense it. These Scissor’s precision and style add to the whole client experience, making them feel pampered and pleased with their new appearance. The best professional hair Scissors become a benchmark for excellence in the hairstyling field, increasing the status of the hairstylist and luring affluent customers who value accuracy and style.

Choosing the best professional hair Scissors means starting a journey toward mastery as well as owning a top-notch tool. Hairdressers who invest in high-quality Scissors are aware that their knowledge and abilities change with time. These Scissors accompany them throughout their professional path, watching them mature and advance as hairdressers. The level of control and accuracy that can be accomplished with these Scissors motivates hairdressers to continuously push the bounds of their imagination, try out novel methods, and keep up with fashion trends. The best professional hair Scissors serve as a symbol of the hairstylist’s devotion to their trade and commitment to providing their clients with outstanding results.

Professional hair Scissors are a stylist’s extension of artistic vision and skill; they are more than just equipment. These innovative tools enable hairstylists to craft magnificent hairstyles that give clients a confident and happy feeling thanks to their precision, comfort, and style. Professional hair Scissors are the best option for hairstylists who value precision and style because of their exceptional craftsmanship, ergonomic design, and cutting-edge features. Hairstylists can realize their full potential, advance their trade, and build a name for excellence in the competitive world of hairstyling by spending money on the best products available.

The Bribie Islander Gloss Magazine July 28, 2023 Issue 196

Issue 196 OUT NOW. Get all your community news and information. Bribie Islands only community gloss magazine NOW EVERY TWO WEEKS! – Articles on boating, camping, fishing, life, drama, travel destinations, sports, and what to see and do on Bribie Island. Covering charities, organizations, places, children’s activities, arts and crafts, tourist destinations, heritage parks, technology, science, music, gardening, and much more.

Download latest digital edition here.

Fishing Report – July 14, 2023

FISHING REPORT

We’ve had classic winter fishing conditions lately, with very little interruption to weeks of pleasant, sunny days, with just light afternoon breezes. Whiting has been caught all over the Passage in this weather, but the largest hauls have come anywhere south of Toorbul. Turner’s Camp sandbank is a good place to target both sand and winter whiting. It’s a good idea to know the difference, so I’ll include a couple of pictures. I tell our customers that if the whiting has blotchy marks across its back, they’re winter whiting and don’t need to be measured. They have a bag limit of 50, but summer whiting has a bag limit of 30 and a size limit of 23cm.

Bloodworms are always favoured baits for whiting, but prawns and squid have been working just as well. Kai and Tian brought in ten big whiting from The Ningi Creek yellow marker, caught on prawns and squid, although Kai said prawns were the way to go.

Jacky’s little bag of winter whiting was all caught on squid, up at White Patch. Rob and Jo had about 40 winter whiting between them after a trip to the Beachmere cockle banks. Worms were the bait, some fresh, some frozen, “it didn’t matter”, Rob said, “they were hitting the lines at the front of the boat, at the back and on both sides – all over” It was one of those glassy afternoons, on the last of the falling tide, when it wouldn’t matter if you caught nothing – just happy to be out there.

Riley, Levi and Tyler had one of those days, too. They went out with their mum and dad, sat just north of the bridge close to the mainland for about 3 hours and caught 71 fish between them! Dad said he didn’t wet a line – too busy sorting out the kids. There were a few legal bream and whiting, grunters and a pike, but they all went back into the water anyway. Great fun fishing and seeing dolphins, too – how good does it get?!

There have been a few reasonable flathead catches around the Passage – Cindy got a 60cm one at the Avon wreck, Dennis had a 45cm dusky at Banksia Beach, but the big ones are yet to come. Late winter is a good time for the larger flathead; when the cooler weather brings the breeders into the creeks around the Passage, usually shadowed by a few smaller males. Any of the creeks up the Passage will be holding nice flathead as winter progresses – we just need more of the REALLY cold mornings and maybe a bit more wind to stir things up. All this clear water makes it too easy for the flathead to see what’s going on at the other end of the line. July is often the month that the big flathead fishing takes off.

Flatheads are aggressive and usually attempt to eat anything that passes by. Casting and retrieving soft plastics and hard-bodied lures will all be successful in catching them. Dennis used a Zman Streakz soft plastic in bubblegum pink. Make sure you use the tidal flow if you’re using bait – allow the boat to drift along the sandbanks.

If you’re fishing from the shore, cast out lures over the shallow flats, where the incoming tidal flow washes in bits of food to the fish. Look for signs of a weed bed. Adding some strong leader to your line is always a good idea – they’re pretty good at biting through a regular line.

There’s plenty of tailor about, especially south of the bridge and along Red Beach. The second green beacon on the way and going around towards Sandstone Point is one good spot to fish for them. The week before last, one bubbling, broiling school would have been at least 30 metres across! Lures and bait have both been working on them but with tailor, it’s all about technique. Out on a boat, look for the birds, find the dark patch of tailor and motor slightly upwind and within range of a good cast.

If you’re thinking tailor-fishing from the beach, pilchards are usually favoured, on ganghooks, and with a good strong leader! In the last week of the month, there will be some nice late afternoon high tides, which should be good for tailor from Red Beach and round to the surf-side.

It’s been great camping weather over the last school holidays, so a mate and his boy popped up to Mission Point for 4 nights. Every day, they kept two mud crabs from their pots, to cook for dinner, letting the rest go. All of the muddies were “very full – two were at least 22cm across, the biggest and heaviest I’ve ever seen, both bucks but we let them go, too”.

Sand crabs are less likely to be found in pots and more often swimming past your boat, at this time of year. I was interested to watch some people visiting from the UK, who used a pilchard in a little bag, attached to a handline, to catch their sand crabs. The little bags are, apparently, commonly saved from boxes of dishwasher tablets. My old Grant’s Guide to Fishes mentions this method – but we all go and spend our money on messy, bulky crab-pots…