The Fishy Sixty was restored and relaunched on Sunday, January 14 in memory of late Blackmans Bay Scout leader Aaron Frith.
The sailing dinghy was donated by Aaron’s family to the Scout group.
The boat’s name Fishy Sixty comes from Aaron’s two nicknames.
His scouting name was Fishy, and his close mates jokingly called him Sixty after a few incidents involving 60 series Land Cruisers.
Unfortunately, the craft had been sorely neglected and required a significant effort to restore.
A Venture unit, and one Venturer in particular, Nick, took up this challenge.
With many hours of input and guidance from the group’s jack-of-all-trades handyman Michael, the pair finally completed the project towards the end of last year.
On Sunday, January 14, a relaunch of the vessel was held at Dru Point boat ramp.
In attendance were many of Aaron’s family and friends including his parents and two daughters.
Group leader Brian started proceedings with a speech, then the Venturers followed by reciting a traditional ship’s blessing and a toasting to the new boat.
Aaron’s mum Jackie gave a tearful monologue.
It was then time to get the boat in the water.
Once the sail was hoisted she took off beautifully, and a few of the Venturers sailed her around the Channel.
The group are looking forward to testing out her skills at the upcoming Scout Guide Regatta in March.
