We have a specific forum for them: sites.google.com/site/compassyachtgroup/forum

They are solid yachts, with solid f/glass. Mine has no balsa core anywhere, but the diesel motor YSE8 was very old and I ditched it. Rigging and things can be replaced when due. Head room inside.

+1, having owned mine for 13 years. Think brick s*&thouse, a bit like the 1980 4-cylinder Volvo station wagon I once owned.

Try for one that has been re-engined with something more powerful (and younger) than the original 8hp Yanmar. You need 12-ish hp if you intend to do much more than day-sail. Otherwise the usual caveats as for any 40-50 year old boat.

I guess you're in the ACT so an offer of a ride on mine in Melbourne is no use, but it's there

Cheers,Graeme

The right marine compass for me comes from the reliable company TurnOnSport. At night, its incandescent light makes the device visible and readable. There is nothing to worry about when the dark sets in. And I don't need to be concerned about the rugged marine conditions, this brand is definitely up for the tough times. The compass's made from ABS plastic, which is waterproof and corrosion-resistant.

Main problem i believe is the mast support, check the block of timber that is enclosed in fibreglass on top of the cabin, beneath the mast. Just look at it from side on, if it looks extremely deflected, and ceiling inside is bulging down, with obvious deflection in main bulkhead as you go from main cabin to head area, that would highlight major problems.