(October 31, 2008) Pete Goss' next big adventure is another boat-build and epic sailing voyage, but it is completely different to anything he has done before. Pete has built a wooden lugger and will follow in the wake of seven Cornishmen who made a heroic journey from Newlyn (UK) to Australia 154 years ago. Proud of his West country roots and an enthusiastic wood-worker, the project is something Pete has wanted to do since he heard about the inspirational voyage of the Mystery.
The 37-foot 'Mystery' was an open Mounts Bay Lugger built in Newlyn. Times were hard and the seven Cornishmen, all related by either blood or marriage and share holders in the Mystery, made the decision to try their luck at the Australian gold rush over a pint in the Star Inn, Newlyn. It was suggested that the Mystery be sold to cover the passage. Captain Richard Nicholls, with a couple under his belt and in good spirits, said: "I'll take you in the Mystery'; and so an amazing adventure was born.
Now, 154 years later, Pete has built 'Spirit of Mystery' in Innsworke Mill boat yard at Millbrook in South East Cornwall to celebrate their amazing achievement. The vessel is as true to the original Mystery as possible and, although there are concessions to safety, they will not use an engine and there are no modern electrical and navigational systems. Spirit of Mystery was launched June 21st and set sail for Australia October 20th. Click here to follow the adventure.
