Also - I need a new furling headsail and main for it (the selling price reflected the knowledge that these needed replacement). I know of Hood, and Doyle sails in Sydney from my other boats - but if anyone recommends an alternative sail supplier, I'd be more than happy to take advice and get a quote. Thanks folks.

Hi Ubique, I'm another happy owner of a steel Van De Stadt 34 down in Victoria. Not much help to offer re sail advice either sorry, and not familiar with any forums apart from the Facebook group mentioned above which seems to be mainly European and not very active. If you find anything let us know!
Where did you find your boat? Was checking out a few others before I got mine last year.

Futurecruiser said..
Hi Ubique, I'm another happy owner of a steel Van De Stadt 34 down in Victoria. Not much help to offer re sail advice either sorry, and not familiar with any forums apart from the Facebook group mentioned above which seems to be mainly European and not very active. If you find anything let us know!
Where did you find your boat? Was checking out a few others before I got mine last year.

I am buying the boat in Batemans Bay which has been on the market for some time. I'll keep it there in the Marina for a while so I can do a few things to it with the relative luxury of access from a marina berth. :)

Ubique said..
Also - I need a new furling headsail and main for it (the selling price reflected the knowledge that these needed replacement). I know of Hood, and Doyle sails in Sydney from my other boats - but if anyone recommends an alternative sail supplier, I'd be more than happy to take advice and get a quote. Thanks folks.

Revolution sails in Nowra would probably be the closest.
I would be inclined to contact Tony Bull and ask his advice on what cloth to use for your intended use. Tony will design the sails and have them made in China and delivered to your door.