Yesterday (20 December 2005) on a perfect Sydney Harbour morning, family, friends, fellow yachties and the media turned on a wonderful welcome for this courageous crew and the storm battered Berri, as she is affectionately known.

Berrimilla approaching Sydney Heads

Since setting out on Boxing Day last year, Alex Whitworth and Peter Crozier have safely completed two of the toughest ocean races in the world, the 2004 Sydney Hobart and the Fastnet. In between they rounded both Capes and battled storms and conditions which only their consumate seamanship and a tough boat enabled them to survive.

Designed by the legendary Peter Joubert and built in 1977, the little Brolga 33 has now completed 14 Hobarts and is about to embark on the last leg of her long adventure, this year's Sydney Hobart. This will mean she has completed three of the toughest ocean races in the world in one year - and to do so circumnavigated the world in some of the world's most dangerous seas.

The three races in a year idea had been a dream of Alex's and Peter had always wanted to round Cape Horn. The two friends, who have been sailing Berri together since the late nineties, combined their dreams and planning for the epic voyage began.

Heading for home, Alex Whitworth and Peter Crozier on Berrimilla with Sydney in the background

The trip involved near death experiences in horrifying storms, alternating with quiet night watches with just the stars, phosphorescence and philosophical thoughts for company.

Second in their Division in the Fastnet, on the way home they were awarded a much coveted trophy for seamanship - only receiving it when they arrived safely in the dock at the Cruising Yacht Club. Alex seemed never to want to part with either the trophy (or his bottle of Fosters). Later it was Pete's turn and his daughter read out the distinguished names adorning the trophy, which was last awarded to Dame Ellen MacArthur.

Peter Crozier and Alex Whitworth (r) clutching the trophy awarded for their exceptional seamanship

The coming few days will see a complete clean out and restocking for Berri and some intense team training for the crew of six (including Peter's wife and daughter). Then she will set out on the second last leg of this long journey, racing to Hobart and finally returning home to the Royal Australian Navy Sailing Association club whose members have been such a great support during this great adventure.

For more details go to www.berrimilla.com and read of Berri's adventures on their blogg, originally set up for family and friends, but now with a world wide following.

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