We spent New Year in Byron Bay. It was so full everywhere that on New Years eve they have blockades to stop anyone who couldn't prove they have accomadation coming in and sleeping on the beach. Not like anyone would have wanted to as it was another washout. It rained on and off pretty much all the time with some very short sunny spells. Despite the weather we decided we needed some exercise as we have spent too much time lazing lately. We went for a walk to Cape Byron to the most easterly point in mainland Australia it was about an hour walk. We got a little wet at the start but just as we hit the lighthouse to walk to the most easterly point the terrential rain started. This did not defeat us as we ran getting battered with both high winds and rain that felt like pins and needles but we made it and got the photo. On the way back we saw a girl in her bikini holding her wet clothes deffinately the most sensible decision as we just looked like drowned rats. The rest of the day was spent drinking with others at the hostel, where we saw in the New Year. Thought of going to the beach on several occasions but the wind and the rain always started again. We shared our room with some Brazilains which was great. Ceasar lives in Rio so we have his address so we can meet up with him when we get there in July.

We got up the next day to see the guys in the room next door drinking again we managed to resist until the afternoon but then gave in and joined them for the rest of the evening. Early on in the day we did actually mange to make it to the beach during a sunny spell and Aaron and some other guys went for a swim in the sea. The current was so string that they started at one end of the beach and came out at the other side. Didn't hang around the beach too long as the wind made sure you were eating sand at all times. It didn't stop the suicidal surfers though, they were entertaining to watch. Even if they caught a wave they were so big they still ended up underneath the water.

On the 2nd we headed for surf camp. When we got there we were all shocked to see clear blue skies and sunshine. The surf was so much better this time. I actually managed to wade out without getting drowned and even stood up once. Okay it is not much of an improvement but is better than none. Apparently not many people try and surf on their knees like me so at least I am different. Aaron managed to catch quite a lot of waves all by himself but he wasn't very pleased with the photos they took. Aaron has only just realised he makes a strange face when he is concentrating. I am sure everyone else has seen it before. On our way to Sydney next where the forecast promises sunshine.