Sydney is the sort of place that hardly ever gets perfect waves. For long stretches of time the large surfing populace endures waves measuring in quality from good to grim in the hope that someday soon it'll get perfect again.

Wednesday was one of those days.

A six foot east swell was fanned by an all-day offshore and the beaches, reefs and points were all pumping under the best conditions we'd seen in many months. Phones rang frantically, emails were fired around, and excuses were offered just to savour some more barrel time.

Craig Brokensha shot this spot north of the harbour.

Check back for Part 2 later this afternoon. //STUART NETTLE