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We have reached another milestone of Monaro Rendezvous' with the 31st annual. That's right; we have been holding these every year in July since 1980 without missing a beat. It was once again held at Thetis Island Marina in the southern Gulf Islands, which, without checking the records is close to 15 years there. The staff and owners there have always treated us well, which is why we keep returning. Prior to Thetis Island we held the event at Browning Marina on Pender Island and the first two years were at Bedwell Harbour, now Poets Cove.

This year we had a great turnout of 17 Monaros representing every model size, which was our best turnout in a number of years. Most boats were local, from the south coast of B.C. but two came from Washington including our most dedicated owner, Peter Schroeder, who has joined us in his Monaro 21 fifteen times and as he stated, with three different women! Close behind is Tom Scottnicki in a 27 who has attended 14 times. We also had four newbe's to the gathering this year who we welcomed to the family. Hopefully they make this event an annual tradition along with many of our other owners.

The sky was clear all weekend with temperatures in the mid 20's. With the wind up at times the water was occasionally somewhat choppy in the Straight of Georgia depending on the time of day, however, it was quite calm on the inside. Although Monaros are great sea boats, the crew has its limitations!

Dan Parker, owner and founder of Monaro Marine was on hand answering many of the owner's technical questions by payment of a beveridge. Dan is always kept busy at this event but he couldn't think of a more enjoyable time except maybe going to Tim Hortons for a coffee and reading a boating magazine.

We would like to thank our suppliers who have supported us year after year with their generous donations of door prizes. This year's sponsors included Paynes Marine, Western Marine, RYM Propeller, Pacific Yachting, Trader Publications, Roton Industries, Harley Davidson, Volvo Penta, Hub Insurance, and Ashland. No one went home empty handed.... or without a hat.

Dan brought along some new boat products for "show and tell" including led lighting, a non-skid flooring product, and two different accessory mounting systems. We had a wonderful feast of barbequed chicken and ribs with corn on the cob and salads, all prepared by Pete and the staff at the marina. Breakfast Sunday morning was also hosted by the restaurant, which included a buffet of eggs, bacon, sausage, hashbrowns, fruit and muffins.

Next year's rendezvous is expected to be at the same location during the same weekend in July so note this on your calendar. We are considering the return of the blindfolded dinghy races, which was a real crowd pleaser for those owners who can remember it. We also encourage your ideas.

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