Thanks for the compliments on the launching and the build. 'Have had a few paddles since and the kayak performs very well. A video clip of the launching and subsequent paddle has been completed:

http://youtu.be/562jYdWwpmI

Paddling will initially be on the rivers of Sydney Harbour : Parramatta River and Lane Cove River so far and then a bit further afield for the lower Hawkesbury/Cowan Creek and Pittwater area.
ET - many thanks for the comment on the weight issue - I will stop thinking about where I could have saved weight.
And to John and ET - congratulations on your new builds- both fine jobs.
Peter Widders