Queen Victoria Departing Hobart Following Her ﬁ Rst Visit to Our Shores, February 2009

Maritime Times

Our maritime history & present day news. No. 27 Autumn 2009. Cost: doubloons (gold coins) donationof Tasmania

Queen Victoria departing Hobart following her ﬁ rst visit to our shores, February 2009. Photograph by Laurie Bahr taken at Sandy Bay QUEEN VICTORIA

The Queen Victoria is 964’ in length and 106’ in width with a draft of in this issue 26’ and weighs 90,000 tons. She was laid down on 12 May 2006 and Port Hobart was completed in the ﬁ rst quarter of 2007 and her maiden voyage Merseyside Maritime was on 11 December 2007 from Glasgow to serveral ports in Europe Museum Knot so Hard No. 13 and returning to Glasgow. Notes from the Curator From the Brig On her second world cruise in 2008/9 Queen Victoria visited Hobart Remembering 1973 on 17 February 2009 and has now replaced the Queen Elizabeth 2 Neptuna which previously paid visits to Hobart each 2 years. Letters to the editor, from the galley, crossword and more Maritime Museum of Tasmania

CARNEGIE BUILDING Cnr Davey & Argyle Sts. Hobart, Tasmania

Postal Address: GPO Box 1118, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, AUSTRALIA Phone: (03) 6234 1427 Fax: (03) 6234 1419 email: [email protected] www.maritimetas.org

Open Daily 9am - 5pm (except for Good Friday & Christmas Day)

Editor:

Bob Petrass Phone: 6225 1004 Mobile: 044 768 1322

Layout & production:

Ricoh Studio Phone: 6223 4311 [email protected]

Closing date for our next newsletter is the 16th July, 2009. Please lodge your articles by that date in the box provided at MMT, or email direct to [email protected]

2 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 editorial

Recently I spent three weeks on the mainland visiting Melbourne & Adelaide plus several country towns in both states and would like to relate to our readers one of the experiences I had which they might fi nd amusing. I did, even though my footy team lost. After the Saints v Swans night football game at Docklands Stadium I joined the BON VOYAGE huge mass of people heading to the railway station. The sign on Platform 13 read Frankston line, which was lucky for me because that is the direction I was being Our only junior volunteer, 10 carried by the crowd, so I just went along with the fl ow. The train was at the station year old Benjamin, and his so I fought my way on board and even got a seat, which was most fortunate as I parents are off to Thailand, was able to see an illuminated sign listing the stations terminating at Sandringham. for 3 weeks, to visit family and Wrong line! friends. We wish them a happy I pushed my way thru the throng muttering “ excuse me, I thought this train was time in the ‘Land of Smiles’ and going to Frankston” and was followed by about half the people on board who a safe return to ‘Aus.’ ‘Rocky obviously were of the same opinion. The train departed and an announcement the rock star’, Ben’s whippet,’ informed us that the Frankston line train was due at Platform 13 in fi ve minutes. will really miss him. Right on time it arrived and once again it was a real ‘bun fi ght’ to get on board, which I managed to do. After a few minutes there was a lot of muttering going on among the passengers Membership Fees and suddenly a mass exodus occurred as somebody called out “ this is another bloody Sandringham line train”. With so many people getting off, while more and Categories of membership and more were still arriving from the football stadium, it was impossible to push the annual fees effective each year 1 crowd back and get behind the yellow safety line on the platform. Several times July to 30 June (including GST) an announcement was made that ‘ the train would not depart until everybody was behind the yellow line’. Individual $27.50 Some ten minutes later 5 or 6 Connex staff arrived and they had to squeeze Family $38.50 between the train and the safety line as they told the patrons to ‘move back’. This is what we were all trying to do but the growing crowd at the back were holding Concessions: $15.00 fi rm. Meanwhile the passengers on the train were getting angry and shaking their fi sts at those on the platform for delaying their departure. Eventually another Interstate $16.50 squeeze thru by the Connex staff gained them a few inches and although some were still over the safety line the go ahead was given for the train to slowly leave Overseas $16.50 the station. This brought a completely different response from all concerned with + $8.50 the crowd on the platform cheering and waving goodbye to those on the train additional postage who responded by clapping. It was great to see the Aussie camaraderie and sense of humour displayed in this manner, even the Connex staff were given ‘three Quarterdeck $25.00 cheers’. Moments later a third train pulled into Platform 13 and the way in which plus $275.00 the multitude charged on board it was going to Frankston whether the driver donation intended to or not. Fortunately he was in complete agreement. On the trip there was much mirth among the supporters of both teams regarding Life Membership $1000 the ‘comedy of errors’ we had all witnessed which would have rivaled ‘Fawlty once only, or 4 years Towers’ if only it had been televised. Quarterdeck Footnote:- to Connex. As the majority of Saints supporters travel on either the membership. Frankston or Sandringham line, you should consider running these trains from different platforms on match days. Pirate Club $5.00 Bob Petrass.

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 3 Had I still been living in Tasmania I LETTERS TO THE EDITOR believe the Arts Council of Tas. would have helped. Dear Bob, Dear Bob, It may be that I should donate the I enjoyed the story submitted by I thought with 2009 being a big mss to the Tasmanian archives, I’m not Laurie Bahr, in your last issue, about Julie year for Errol Flynn fans you might be really interested in making money from Andrews singing a comic version of ‘My interested in this article, which was it but my admiration for the Tasmanians- Favourite things’ from ‘The Sound of published recently in ‘Mailbag’ an as a people with some very special Music’when she appeared as a special American Movie Buff Magazine. attributes-independence, the ability guest in a Benefi t concert on her 69th Swashbuckler Centenaries. to adapt are some of them (married to Birthday. a Tasmanian may have infl uenced my The year 2009 is the 100th thinking) The father-in-law too, a man What a ‘Star’ she is, with so many anniversary of the birth of three different who ran an orchard at Snug on land that wonderful performances in fi lms over a swashbucklers: Louis Hayward (born was an original grant and his brother long time. March 19, 1909), Errol Flynn (born June who fi shed in the ‘Foam and Frolic’ out I saw on the Internet that she received 20, 1909) and Douglas Fairbanks Jr (born of Hobart were exceptional in their ways. a standing ovation that lasted over four December 9, 1909) It would be nice Old Herb could not read or write but give minutes followed by repeated encores. if CI could do something to mark this him some numbers to work with and he occasion. My favourite of all her many great was a whiz! movies is Victor, Victoria, which I consider I am trying here in Melbourne to Had many happy hours in Hobart one of the best comedies ever made, generate some interest in a celebration sailing on Aud Palfreyman’s Matthew with superb acting from the entire cast. of Errol Flynn born in Hobart, Tasmania. Flinders and at times on John Paynes The Errol Flynn Society of Tasmania are —Leslie George (Sydney) Mistral, but people like Tommy Tucker also busy drumming up support for the shipwright at St Helens with a son I agree on all counts and isn’t it great some recognition of the local boy made who went eventually to Sydney as a to see that such a big star can ‘take the good. mickey out’ by singing a parody of one of skipper of one of the ferries, they all ring I’ll close with these immortal words, her own greatest hits. bells in my head at times. “Do not draw your sword, except to One memory of the Taroona, was a defend your honor, defeat your enemy, or scene below deck in the saloon as we protect your King.” neared the mouth of the Tamar – tea and Maritime Times Award —Garry Stewart (Beaumaris, Australia) sandwiches, with the tea being poured Thank you Garry, besides being the cen- from a white enamel teapot and the Next issue we will be instituting tenary for these 3 famous swashbucklers early morning ride from Beauty Point to this new honour to go to a it is also that of a much loved Australian Launceston. worthy recipient for giving actor who could never be described in Later on while at the Examiner I made great support of the Maritime that fashion. several trips on the Seacat, still have Museum of Tasmania. A very ‘lay back character’ who appeared We would welcome a sponsor under his ‘stage name’ in his many fi lms. memories of Ted Littley, Bob Rush, Peter for same. (born on 26, March 2009) Donaldson on the Flinders Island, King Island runs and The Scorn we heaped on new members Can our readers guess who he is ? the way the Government ships were run. (answer page 23) Once again thanks for the Taroona We are delighted to welcome the story, look after yourself. following NEW MEMBERS to the —Regards Wal Davies (Frankston) Maritime Museum. Bob, enclosed the application for membership Ken Burrows (Concession) Delighted and pleasantly surprised and the fee. Honoured. Wal Davies (Interstate) to read the story on the Taroona in your Norm Dean (Concession) excellent magazine. Life proceeds at an ‘Welcome aboard’ Wal. and thanks for Brad Greig (Interstate) even pace here in RSL Park, the fact that I your great letter. I feel sure it will bring Anthony Lee (Concession) have now reached the big NINEOH has a back many happy memories to a lot of Anthony Mansfi eld (Interstate) calming effect and I am almost at peace ‘old salts’ in Tassie. As for your book, it Christine Nelan (Volunteer) with the world. would be wonderful if somebody reading this could set the wheels in motion for Gary Douglas Petrass (Interstate) I say almost because the one fl y having it published. In the meantime Jill Pronobis (Volunteer) in the ointment is the fact that I have Glen Richardson (Volunteer) perhaps we could create some interest by been unable to fi nd a publisher for my including a few excerpts from it in future Dr Peter Sharp (Individual) Tasmanian book 30 I have 35000 words editions of MTT. Karen Lee Wilson (Volunteer) and 30 pix in need of a home.

4 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 From the Brig... president’s message Enclosed with this edition of Maritime Times is a pamphlet giving Members often ask, “What happens in the Museum’s rooms upstairs beyond the details of the forthcoming National Carnegie Gallery?” Many of you know that it is home to the administration offi ce. However, a lot more happens in this crowded space where unseen artefacts are Conference of the Oral History stored and Rona Hollingsworth and Peta Knott manage events and exhibitions Association of Australia (OHAA) to be with the help of volunteers. But it is the upstairs research library that may be a held at the Tram Shed in Launceston mystery to members. from 17'h to 20th September 2009. Jill Cassidy, of the OHAA invites Vice President Mike Webb, chairman registrations for the Conference and of the library sub-committee, said, “I don’t like to think of it as simply a adds the following notes: library but more as an information "For the fi rst time in fourteen years centre. We use our research resources the national conference of the Oral to respond to up to 25 public History Association of Australia will be requests each week seeking answers held in Tasmania. Islands of Memory: to maritime heritage questions”. Navigating Personal and Public History The library contains more than will be held in Launceston 17 -20 40,000 images, hundreds of books, September 2009. Fifty-fi ve speakers shipping registers, information fi les will cover a myriad of different topics, Mike Webb searching for answers and a chart collection. In order to including the Anzac tradition, sound make the best use of the resources recordings of childhood, indigenous every item has to be identifi ed and catalogued in a way that allows easy access. memories, and fact v. fi ction in oral In addition, images on old or delicate media need to be scanned and stored history. Tasmanian topics include electronically so that they are not lost forever. A dedicated group of nearly 20 volunteers works to improve access to the records and eventually hope to make Hydro Tasmania, the Central Highlands, the research information available to the community at large on the Maritime Launceston Church Grammar School, Museum’s web site. Professor Theodore Thomson-Flynn (Errol's father), and Home Hill, Joseph The volunteers work in teams, the and Enid Lyons' house in Devonport. fi rst team dealing directly with public research requests while "The keynote speaker is Richard others work on the massive Craike Whiteing from Robben Island Museum, photo print collection, the O’May talking on 'Remembering Nelson photo album collection and on Mandela on Robben Island'. This is a other collections and negatives. once-in-a-Iifetime opportunity to hear Their results are often useful to the inside story (literally) of Nelson authors needing photographs and Mandela's time in prison, where he may possibly be used, for example, went from an ordinary prisoner to a by the editorial group working to Neville Smith identifying documents publish Ted Michener’s Antarctic person admired and consulted by not shipping book “Ice in the Rigging”. Yet another Maritime Museum library team just the other black inmates but also works on the maintenance of the information fi les and document collection. the white wardens". Projects in their early stages include a proposal to publish an illustrated book of By Mark Hosking our ship models including the story of each ship. Mike Webb has commenced a project to revise the Museum’s computer database and software in order to improve accessibility and public search ability. Finally there is a plan to regularly DONATIONS contribute articles for newspaper publication, the fi rst being a series on Tasmanian One Design yachts. We thank the following members for their very generous donations The library volunteers toil away upstairs, meeting the constitutional objects of the and continued support of the Maritime Museum which include “to foster and encourage knowledge of Maritime Maritime Museum. history and to undertake and to encourage research into Maritime history and the publication and production of papers, articles, books and electronic information, Norm Dean records and material thereon”. Tom Murdoch Colin Denny

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 5 MERSYSIDE MARITIME MUSEUM Albert Dock, Liverpool, England; open daily lOam - 5 pm; admission free

This museum is in a former warehouse staterooms, contrasted with the more shipping company records (but not by the Albert Dock, but the entrance is basic accommodation for third class Cunard which are at Liverpool Univer- from the Canning Dock side. Inside we passengers and crew, and such sad sity), seamen's charity records etc. and go up the stairway to board our ship relics as a lifejacket from the Titanic, a a library of maritime books including (the entrance is formed from the hull deckchair from Lusitania and, a recent Lloyd's Lists from 1740. The Library is of a 9000 ton cargo passenger liner) to acquisition, a stewardess' apron worn open Tuesday - Thursday 10.30 am - "Lifelines", the essential services pro- the night the Titanic sank. Again the 4.30 pm and ill is required. vided by merchant ships and seafarers. interactive exhibits include recordings On the quayside the pilot boat, Ed- A dramatic display on the Battle of the of comments from survivors. mund Gardner is open to visitors from Atlantic in WWII is illustrated with vis- Up to the fourth fl oor cafe (open 11 am April - October. She could carry up to ual and sound effects and interactive - 4.30 pm) and a nice lunch, while look- 30 pilots in some comfort and was sta- exhibits, including recorded interviews ing down at the Albert Dock· from the tioned at sea for a week at a time (now with seamen. A model showing the ar- cafe windows. On the way to the cafe, pilots are stationed at Point ofAyr on rangement of a typical convoy dem- through a display of Liverpool pottery, the Welsh coast). The three masted onstrates how extensive these were. windows look on to the Canning Dock, schooner De Wadden, the last sailing Unfortuately the company of many where special visiting boats some- vessel to trade to the Mersey, is being ships did not guarantee rescue if one times berth, such as the Endeavour restored by volunteers. The tug Brock- was sunk for all ships were instructed Replica when she visited a few years lebank is also usually berthed. On the to scatter at speed if one was attacked ago. The day I was there in May 2006 dockside is a propeller from the Lusita- and not stop to pick up survivors in two naval patrol boats, in for Navy nia. The old pilot building now houses the water, even the children from the Week, were just leaving. On the 4th a Museum of Liverpool· Life. The Pier- Benares, torpedoed while carrying 100 fl oor is also the theatre where lectures master's house next door is also open child evacuees to America. The next on maritime and museum subjects are to visitors. gallery illustrates travel by sea, cargo, regularly given, some arranged by the Near the entrance to the docks at Pier- the life of a seafarer and the trailing Museum and some by the Friends of head a ferry still crosses the Mersey, ships. Exhibits show the way cargo was the Museum (who, by the way, have an although most people now travel by stowed: in barrels in old sailing ships or offi ce on the quay in Mermaid House the Mersey Rail underground (James modem containers and visitors can try where they are happy to meet visitors, Street is the station for Pierhead and their hand at correct stowage. especially members of similar organi- the Maritime Museum). The Albert Up to the next fl oor (by lift) to "Build- zations). There are also regular activi- Dock behind the Maritime Museum, ers of Great Ships", showing the devel- ties arranged for children. like Salamanca Place, now attracts visi- opment of ship building and of steam Back downstairs: on the ground fl oor tors with shops, pubs, restaurants, the engines, including a 1900 steam pad- is the Customs and Excise Museum on Tate Modern (very modern art), the dlewheel engine. What a lot of space the history of smuggling, the problem Beatles Story and a hotel. those steam engines and boilers took of endangered species or fakes and the There are several museums and art up and what an enormous amount of role of modern customs offi cers. This is galleries in Liverpool, including the coal they burnt! This fl oor also houses particularly interesting for children as Conservation Centre, Whitechapel, a display of maritime paintings, fi gure there are many interactive displays: which is of especial interest to people heads and ship models and usually a spot the suspect traveller or search a connected with museums. As well as temporary exhibition, which in 2006 ship's cabin for hidden contraband. a general exhibition on conservation, was on the cotton trade. In the basement "Emigrants to a New special tours to laboratories are avail- On the third fl oor "Safe Passages" World" is of particular interest to Tas- able. shows the development of aids to manians as many of their ancestors Most of Liverpool's museums are or mariners to negotiate the hazards travelled via Liverpool. Also in the have been undergoing some reorgan- of the Mersey approach to Liverpool basement is "Transatlantic Slavery". isation in preparation for 2008 when Docks, such as charts, marker buoys Both these galleries are about to be Liverpool will be "Culture Capital" and (originally wooden like barrels), pilots, reorganised. there will no doubt be special exhibi- tug boats, navigational instruments A Maritime Archives and Library on tions and activities. Robyn Archer was and lifeboat and salvage services. Next the second fl oor holds Liverpool reg- appointed oganiser (but resigned in one of my favourite galleries: isters of merchant ships, records of July 2006). "Floating Palaces", the great liners with the Mersey Docks and Harbour Co., By Shirley King their magnifi cent saloons and luxury

6 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 Fine Art & Antiques Masterpiece@IXL Masterpiece @ IXL 2/ 19A Hunter Street, Hobart, Tasmania ph. 03 6231 3144 fax. 03 6231 3143

08150 email. [email protected] Haughton Forrest (1826 - 1925) www.masterpiece.com.au "SS Victory off the Iron Pot, Tasmania" 1884 Oil on board 44 x 75 cm Signed & dated lower left

08151 Haughton Forrest (1826 - 1925) "SS Huon off the Iron Pot, Tasmania" Oil on board 44 x 75 cm Signed & dated lower left

S.V.May Queen Report Two market days have been held and inspections to groups, day or evening, were quite successful. Many thanks particularly during Heritage Month. News: New website is up and to all those who donated goods and Bookings Ph. 62231621 running. www.svmayqueen.org who gave up their time. If you are looking for a venue for a The Summer Season has been very A Thank You BBQ was held for Club wedding, wake, birthday, cocktail busy. The volunteers of the May members despite the Tasmanian party, whatever, please call us. Queen Club have assisted greatly on weather. How many marshmallows Saturdays and cruise ship days. The How do you know when we are open? can you toast in one go? Thursday afternoon group continues You look to see if our blue and white with rope maintenance, etc. We Do you know of any anecdotes on the fl ag is fl ying and also the helpful found that the passengers from the Queen? We are very interested. Tell volunteers behind the desk in the Millenium were the most interested in Bob Chesterman. Maritime Museum will know. the restoration program. We are off ering talks on the See you on the dock, The Wooden Boat Festival brought us development of our special Mary Marsh over 1000 visitors on board. Tasmanian ketches followed up by

MARINER’S COTTAGE ANTIQUES

Muirs Boat Yard 42 Napoleon Street Battery Point

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 7 by Sid Heatley S.S. Neptuna

Neptuna and her sister Merkur were built January 1935 Burns Philp agreed to for a small German shipping company in purchase both vessels. Merkur gave her 1924 by Fried Krupp of Kiel. Her owners owners very good service over the years operated as the ocean link from Flensburg but Neptuna (she had changed her name a small port on the Baltic Sea. When in 1935) suff ered from a series of engine launched they were named as the Rio problems over the years. Bravo and the Rio Panuco and could carry In December 1941 Neptuna was sent about 90 passengers and a large amount to New Guinea to begin evacuating of cargo on a service from Hamburg and women and children from New Guinea Southampton to Vera Cruz, Tamico and until January 1942 when she was sent THOUGHT FOR THE DAY Galveston in Texas. For several years they to Darwin arriving in the port early in enjoyed great success on this service. ‘ Hope sees the invisible, feels February 1942 with a mixed cargo which the intangible and achieves the By the start of the Thirties it was clear included several hundred tons of depth impossible’ the service was in decline and both ships charges and also some TNT stowed in No. spent periods laid up and in December 3 and 4 holds. Henrietta Law. 1932 they were withdrawn from service Due to congestion in the port she lay out (Physiotherapist extraordinary) 1957 – 2006 and put up for sale. At this time Burns Philp in the harbour for several days awaiting Alfred Hospital & Monash Medical Centre. was looking for additional tonnage for a berth to become available but in the their service to Singapore and inspected early hours of the 19th of February was the pair but decided against purchasing able to come alongside with the Adelaide them. They remained idle until 1934 when Steamship Company’s Barossa on the other the famous German shipping company side of the jetty. Neptuna was unable to Sponsor-ship Norddeutscher Lloyd bought them move as her engineers had begun repairs intending to use the two ships to reopen The Magazine needs more sponsors on her engines. Fully aware of the cargo their service from the Far East to Australia can you help? If so call Bob on aboard Neptuna those who survived the that had been so successful before the 6225 1004 or 0447 681 322 initial attack hurriedly abandoned ship fi rst world war brought it to an end. The Thanks to these sponsors for and frantic eff orts were made to tow the ships were refi tted with four suites and keeping us afl oat; The Mercury, Barossa away from the jetty. Minutes later a swimming pool and accommodation K&D Warehouse Mitre 10, Neptuna blew up smoke and fl ame rising arranged for 85 fi rst class passengers and Tasmanian Shipping Supplies over three hundred feet into the air with 20 second class passengers. Rio Bravo was & Stormy Australia debris being scattered over a wide area of renamed Merkur. the harbour and docks. Local shipowners were not pleased by In 1959 the remains of Neptuna were the new competition and raised the salvaged by the Fujita Salvage Company matter with the Australian Government of Osaka. who brought pressure on Norddeutscher Lloyd to withdraw from the trade. In Prepared for publication by Laurie Bahr

8 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 Volunteers explore Hobart’s damp underground

On March 18th an intrepid group of Maritime Museum volunteers descended into Hobart’s rivulet and explored the city’s damp underground history. Amongst the modern graffi ti art was the historical evidence that shows just how old this subterranean waterway is. Beautifully constructed tunnels of convict brick contrast with the more utilitarian and recent cement fl oors. But of most interest to the volunteers were the stories of the people who built the rivulet that was once only fi t to be a sewer. Also, looking up above, are the stories of the buildings around the rivulet that depended on the water it brought and the waste it took away. Wearing hard hats and carrying torches, the volunteers enjoyed a careful stroll through the slippery stories of Hobart’s historic rivulet. This is just one of the many tours and special events that the Maritime Museum off ers to its volunteers. The next excursion is to the Anglesea Barracks on Wednesday 20th May. All volunteers are welcome to come along. The Maritime Museum is always looking for more volunteers. Call 6234 1427 to become a volunteer. By Peta Knott

Recommended from our Book Shop Where are they now? In our previous issue we showed this picture of four youngsters enjoying their voyage on the TAROONA. We wonder if any of our readers recognize any of them or if they saw the article in the MTT themselves. It would be interesting to recall their memories of this trip all those years ago so if you can help us locate any or all of them drop us a line. - Ed.

On sale now $24.95

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 9 Public lunchtime by Sid Heatley talk series Some members may have attended one or two of the Maritime Museum’s public Port Hobart (1946) lunchtime talks held in the Royal Society Room, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. We have held four talks so far and they have been on the ﬁ rst Tuesday of every second month. However, the museum has such a line up of speakers that they will now be held every month. Don’t miss out on some fascinating guest presenters on illuminating topics! Upcoming public lunchtime talks 2nd June Michael Turner, Curator of the Nicholson Museum, University of Sydney. “Sir William Hamilton, Lady Emma Hamilton and Horatio Nelson: A Tale of Shipwrecked Love and Antiquities”

7th July Stefan Petrow Senior Lecturer, Department of History and Classics, University of Prior to the war Harland and Wolff had The Sister of the Port Hobart was the Tasmania “The Story of the Shiplovers’ built a number of fast motor – cargo Empire Star (1946) – the Blue Star Line. To Society” liners for the Shaw Savill Line. After the replace some of the refrigerated tonnage outbreak of hostilities, the Shaw Savill Line lost during World War 2 the Port Line 4th August Graeme Broxam, Acclaimed maritime researcher and prototype was adopted for a number of acquired the Empire Wessex in 1946 and writer ships constructed by the same builders, renamed her Port Hobart. Her new owners “Bass Strait Shipping and the City including four ordered by the Merchant upgraded her refrigeration capacity of Melbourne” Shipbuilding Department of the Admiralty. but she retained her originally planned These builders had specialised in high- accommodation for 36 Saloon passengers class diesel tonnage, which both their and 92 Tourist Class passengers. Glasgow and Belfast yards had been It was clear at the time of her building suitably equipped to handle. Vessels built that demand for passengers to Australia included The Empire Grace (later Wairangi) and New Zealand would be heavy for at and Empire Hope for the Ministry of War least fi ve more years. Similar arrangements Transport and for the Shaw Savill Line, The were made on Shaw Savill’ Waiwera and Waiwera and yard No. 1091. Wairangi: and the Blue Star Line Empire The company had ordered yard 1091 in Star (The Empire Mercia) December 1940, on lines similar to the Early photographs of the Port Hobart can Waiwera (1944). Laid down in August 1941 be distinguished from the later photos by the hull was taken over on the stocks by the large number of lifeboats provided. The Lady Nelson the Admiralty and fi nished as the Escort Carrier HMS Campania in 1944. She In May 1950 the Port Hobart went sailing most weekends distinguished herself in convoy protection back to Belfast where the passenger & public holidays work in the North Atlantic and after the accommodation was removed and her cargo handling gear increased. (1 1/2 hour duration) war was retained by the Royal Navy. She $15 adults | $5 children was converted to a fl oating Exhibition Ship The Port Hobart continued to give good Phone 03 6234 3348 for the 1951 Festival of Britain, and in 1955 service until she was caught up in the www.ladynelson.org.au was broken up at Blyth. container revolution

(In dry dock 18/5 untill 29/5) Prepared for publication by Laurie Bahr

10 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 Shipwrights Arms Hotel

(Established 1846) 29 Trumpeter Street, Battery Point Phone: 03 6223 5551

Situated in the heart of historic Battery Point, “Shippies” is lined with a unique collection of Tasmania’s past, both maritime and historical

Owen Humphries (Licensee)

A traditional old English corner pub, filled with history, tradition, and pride including photographs of every ‘Sydney to Hobart’ winner

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 11 KNOTT NEWS By Peta Knott

Those who have been to the museum in the last month may have noticed an unusual exhibition. Just near the exit from the galleries, there was a display case that contained what some people might consider – rubbish! But as always, there is a story behind the museum display. And the story begins…. “It be March in the year two thousand and nine and t‘fearless Rear Admiral Hamish and Treasure chest, Hamish and Andy and Therese James, Teachers Aid, Hobart College. Commodore Andy1 embarked on a long and dangerous voyage contained the prized tapes of past 7HOFM. During that time there was 2 on Taully Shore from t’Mainland Hamish and Andy Shows! a noticeable increase in visitors of a to the Tasmanias. They came to younger age group, a demographic celebrate that their radio show These valiant sailors bestowed the we are encouraging to visit the could now be heard on this fair chest upon our grand and glorious museum more often. The exhibition isle’s airwaves, and they brought Lord Mayor Valentine. He decreed also raised a signifi cant amount of us gifts and fair treasures in a chest that t’chest be displayed in the money for the Choir of High Hopes overfl owing wit’ booty. shiver-me-timbers institution o’ as well as raising the profi le of the the Maritime Museum so that all museum. So sometimes it does pay Arr, me hearties, the chest be fi lled peoples of t’Tasmanias could enjoy to have a pirate with a treasure chest t’brim with exotic trade beads the bounteous gift from t’Mainland. hanging around...! and jewellery o’dubious origin. The booty be then auctioned to Gambling trinkets, pastimes and the salty sea dog with t’most sacks 1 Hamish and Andy are a comedy duo and host diversions to please any sailor o’gold. All gold bullion raised going an afternoon radio show broadcast nationally 3 stuck in t’doldrums . Maritime to the Choir of High Hopes, arr...!” but on 7HOFM in Tasmania as of January 2009. munchies for instant energy during 2 Normally known as Windward Bound long watches, tools of the trade But that is not the end of the story. 3 Cards and dice, a musical instrument, fi shing 4 and miscellaneous memorabilia . The treasure chest was displayed for equipment But most importantly, the chest a month with much advertising on 4 Cat o’nine tails, anchor, marine air horn

Except from chapter 13 J. K. McCarthy’s book “Patrol into Yesterday” Published 1963 Submitted by Bill Nicholson

12 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 The Gothic with its royal entourage draws a crowd in Hobart Notes from the Curator

I wonder how many Museum members remember the might form the nucleus for a small display about Royal 1953 Royal Visit when the Gothic brought a young Queen Visits - so please write down or tell us of your experiences Elizabeth and Prince Philip to Hobart. We recently received with Royal Vessels and Royal Visits to Hobart. (Did you a fascinating collection of items relating to the Royal Tour know that the Prince Regent, represented by an excellent from Donald Clayton who was one of four radio operators model in our main display, was once a Royal Yacht?) on the Gothic. Our current display in the temporary gallery is On the A map of the tour is dated 1952 but three telegrams telling Waterfront which opened on May 3 in time for Heritage the ship’s company of the King’s death, expressing the Month. The exhibition, which traces the development of crew’s sorrow, and a reply from Princess Elizabeth, explain the port, includes many photographs from our collections, why this original tour was cancelled. The tour, which extracts from interviews, as well as short anecdotes eventually took place in 1953-1954, is documented in supplied by our members. maps, a bound itinerary and stories published in Marconi Thanks to everyone who helped with the display, and Navy journals, and Hobart and London newspapers. especially Audrey Hudspeth whose research provided a A photo of the Royal couple with Gothic’s crew shows solid basis for the text; Rex Cox who helped to date and Donald Clayton in the front row while his passport, radio identify images and joined me on various rooftop forays operator’s certiﬁ cate and other items also commemorate to obtain modern images; and Jonothan Davis and John his time on the vessel. On a personal note, handwritten Copeland for providing the interview recordings. We are comments in the itinerary lend support to the view that a also indebted to Arts Tasmania for exhibition funding and sailor (or radio operator) has a girl in every port! to Jess Atkinson of TMAG for the design and printing of display panels. You can see a few of these items on display in our ‘recent donations’ case. Sometime in the future we hope they By Rona Hollingsworth

New Exhibitions Special Events What’s On “On the Waterfront” Waterfront treasure hunt View an exhibition about Hobart’s waterfront Explore the port of Hobart searching for industry and its colourful characters. historical clues while learning the history of Water – Our Island’s life force Temporary Gallery of the Maritime Museum the waterfront. Pick up your treasure map Heritage Month - May 2009 from the Maritime Museum for a chance to Historic fi lms on the water During Heritage Month, the Maritime win prizes. See how water has been the life force of Museum of Tasmania will be open May Queen as usual, but with new exhibitions Tasmania by viewing rarely seen historic and special events to highlight the fi lms. Films about lighthouse keepers, Hobart Tasmania’s oldest trading vessel built in importance of water in Tasmanian life. regattas, the fi shing industry and shipwrecks 1867 and used in the timber trade for over will be screened throughout Heritage Month. 100 years. Open for tours 10am - 4pm every Maritime Museum opening hours Gallery Two, Maritime Museum Saturday in May (weather permitting). 9am-5pm daily Constitution Dock

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 13 14 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 Bob d’Boozer, can we drink it? from Yes we can! the galley

On the GrapeVine Hello Sailor Recently I was ‘browsing’ in one of Dan Murphy’s huge liquor stores, some people like to browse thru book shops, antique shops Bread and Butter Pudding or even cemeteries, but I fi nd it most uplifting to look at all the bottles containing such delicious ingredients. The one thing I have never been able to do was leave empty handed as there is always Serves 4-6 something that proves too much of a temptation for me to resist. This time it was a superb ‘very old muscat’ from the wonderful Rutherglen Ingredients area, which produces such wines that are the envy of the rest of the 6-8 slices of white bread world. Sometimes we forget about the Ports, Tokays, Sherrys, etc. 2 medium eggs which are the gems in the crown of this area and concentrate on the 30g butter excellent reds and whites from wineries such as Brown Bros. Some 600ml milk of the wineries making fortifi ed wines in this area date back as far as 2-3 teaspoons ground cinnamon the 1850’s, Morris, All Saints, Bullers, Baileys, Campbells, Chambers 6 tablespoons dark rum Rosewood and many others are often ‘out of sight out of mind’ but 1 very ripe banana once they grace our palate again one bottle is not enough. 3 tablespoons brown sugar At least that was my experience on this occasion. 55g raisins or sultanas Enjoying such a mellow drop often brings back memories and one grated rind & juice of 1 lime which occurred to me was a very funny joke told by the great Jim Hardy some years ago. It was about a group of Irish paratroopers Choose any bread other than a sandwich loaf as this is too learning the jump drill. thin and will end up as mush. The instructor told them to follow these instructions. Butter the bread lavishly and discard the crusts. Sprinkle Red -- hook up. Orange -- line up at the door. Green -- shout Geronimo with cinnamon and cut into thin strips. and jump. Peel and slice the banana and mix together in a small bowl They rehearsed and jumped. with the dried fruit, rind and juice of the lime. “Whew” said the instructor, shutting the door, that was the worst mob Cover the bottom of a buttered ovenproof dish with the I ever had to teach. bread and butter strips and then sprinkle over the banana Just then there was a thunderous knocking on the door hatch. He mixture. Repeat layers fi nishing with a layer of bread and opened it to fi nd one of the Irish soldiers hanging on for dear life. butter. “Hey”he cried, what was the name of that Indian again?” Crack the eggs into another bowl and lightly beat in the Stop Press. milk, rum and sugar. Pour this custard over the bread and The 2004 vintage Grange Hermitage has been released by Penfolds butter mixture and leave to soak for about 30 minutes, and at $549- a bottle is sure to sell fast as critics say this latest release pushing the top layer under the liquid from time to time is the nearest to perfection in the last decade. At the launch on 1st until all the liquid is absorbed. May, droves of wine lovers braved the cold and queued at Penfold’s Bake in a pre-heated moderate oven (180C/350F) for cellar door willing to pay $70- a glass for the experience. about 40-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top Now, shock, horror. is golden brown. Fosters are producing a crisp dry white and a shiraz cabernet in green plastic bottles which they claim will be environmentally friendly by Serve when the pudding is warm with a generous helping reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 29%. They will sell for $17- a of whipped cream to which you have added another bottle, but drink it quickly, it’s shelf life is just 12mths. tablespoon (or two) of the dark rum. Now, good news, from our scientists. A study of some 1400 middle-aged men found regularly drinking Many thanks to MMT member Kim Newstead for wine boosts longevity. It showed that wine was linked to lower risk submitting this nautical recipe from “The Sailing Cook- of death from all causes, including stroke and heart disease. They Book” concluded that half a glass of wine a day ,can add almost 5 years to your life. *You beauty, on that calculation I added some 50 years onto ‘Lucky Pierre’ will return next issue after enjoying a my life at a party last month. ‘gastronomical’ holiday on the North Island.

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 15 Article submitted by Bob Vellacott President Devonport Maritime Museum

Thank You Our Australian Wooden Boat Festival edition was so popular we had to ask Ricoh to print more copies urgently, which they did at no cost to MMT.

16 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 DID YOU KNOW… TASMANIA WAS THE FIRST IN AUTRALIA TO HAVE:

Tattslotto 1896 England. The risqué images of women that have decorated British war-planes since WW1 are no more. Although there have Electric street lighting in 1895 been no complaints from the fi ve and a half thousand women in the RAF, the Launceston Ministry of Defence has decreed that these images could be off ensive to some Telephone call – between 1874 female personnel. The ‘nose art’ images have been scrubbed from aircraft Launceston & Campbell currently launching daily air strikes against the Taliban in Southern Afghanistan. Town The practice of painting Hollywood movie stars gained popularity in WW11 Parking meters in Collins 1955 with stars such as Rita Hayworth, Betty Grable and Jane Russell prominent on Street, Hobart British bombers heading for Germany. One top model described the images as ‘harmless fun which was fl attering to those chosen and something nice to take A game of golf – Launceston 1827 the airmen’s mind off things for a while’. A game of lawn bowls 1845 There was also concern that the images could be off ensive to a country where all A case of Rabies 1867 women are forced to wear a head-to-toe Burka in public. Enact legislation to protect 1846 * How can ‘nose art’ be ‘on the nose’ if it boosted the moral of our brave men ? native animals Daylight saving 1970 A legal casino – Hobart 1973 knot so hard A trout hatchery – Salmon 1864 a series by Frank Charles Brown Ponds A compulsory state 1868 No. 13 education system Bowline round a Floating Bridge of its type 1939 (dismantled 1966) Post or Person 3. Bring the Working End across and draw taut so as to make a Half Hitch in the Standing Part, with the Whaling Station, Ralph’s Bay 1805 Tying a Bowline round an object Working End located within as in Fig 3. requires a different technique to that An agricultural Society 1821 normally used to tie the knot. An Australian to work in 1886 Antarctica, L.C.Bernacchi A novel published ‘Quintus 1831 Servinton’ by Henry Savery A special authority to 1915 manage parks/reserves

years ago if 1. Pass the Working End round the object as in Fig 1 4. Take the Working End around the Standing 100anyone suggested Part and back through the Half Hitch as in Fig 4 a black man would one day be President of the USA, they would have been told ‘ and pigs might ﬂ y.’ Now, 100 days into Barack Obama’s presidency we have swine ﬂ u! How times have changed. (a suggested cure, apply oinkment to the rashers.’) 2. Make a Half Knot as in Fig 2 5. Adjust for size as required and draw down to make snug as in Fig 5

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 17 “calm before the storm?”

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18 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 Nautical Crossword IV

A young ventriloquist called Bernard is touring the clubs and one night he is doing a show in a small town in Arkansas. With his dummy, Joey, on his knee, he starts going through his usual dumb blonde jokes, when a blonde woman in the 4th row stands on her chair and starts shouting, “I’ve heard enough of your stupid blonde jokes. What makes you think you can stereotype women that way? What does the colour of her hair have to do with her worth as a human being? Its guys like you who keep women from being respected at work and in the community and from reaching our full potential as a person. You and your kind continue to perpetuate discrimination against not only blondes but women in general and all in the name of humour!” The very embarrassed ventriloquist begins to apologise, and the blonde yells out “You stay out of this mister! I’m talking to that little #@$* on your knee!” Solution page 23

A father was scolding his son for not doing his homework. “If I had ‘The Dick’ & ‘The Doc’ a computer, it would be much "Holmes what shape do you easier,” said the son. “Elementary my Dear think the world will be in “You don’t need a computer,” Watson, round.” 1,000 years hence?" replied the father. “Be serious old chap, how “When Abraham Lincoln was your “Watson it will be diﬀ erent do you think life age, he studied by candlelight in a unrecognizable, will be” log cabin.” apart from one thing.” “ And that is ?“ “And when he was your age,” the “Politicians having travel rorts son replied, “He was President of on their holidays in space.” the United States!”

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 19 LEAKING DECKS?

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20 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 Remembering 1973 …a series by the lateAlby Kuffer

• In the Sydney to Hobart Classic • Noted author Patrick White was between Daneson on the rails Line Honours went to Helsal announced as Australian of the and favourite Glenrowan on his (NSW) and Fastest Time to Ceil year. outside to win the Melbourne 111 (Hong Kong) Cup by a long head. Both trainer • At the MCG Richmond, led by Ray Hutchins and jockey Frank • Jan—In Paris, America signed an Tasmanian Royce Hart and Reys were local battlers and Gala accord to end involvement in the coached by Tom Hafey defeated Supreme’s victory ended a 20 Vietnam War. Their last troops Carlton by 30 points to win year drought for Victorian owners pulled out in March. Confl ict the fl ag. Keith Greig (North and breeders, the previous between the North and South Melbourne) won the Brownlow winner being Wodalla. continued for another two years. Medal and Collingwood’s Peter McKenna won the goalkicking • The star of the Spring Carnival • Feb—Australia’s fi rst legal casino again. was undoubtedly 3 year old Taj eventually opened at Wrest Point, Rossi, trained by Bart Cummings, Hobart. • In the Spring, 4yo NZ mare who on 3 successive Saturdays Swell Time (16-1) ridden by • April 8—Famous artist Pablo won the Cox Plate 2000m, Brian Andrews beat 17 others, Picasso dies in France aged 91. Victoria Derby 2500m and The including 4-1 fav Imagele, to George Adams 1600m against • July—Bob Hawke was elected win the Caulfi eld Cup from Gala the best of all ages from Australia President of the ALP. Supreme and Young Ida. and New Zealand. • October—Our fi rst $50 note was • At Flemington, Gala Supreme circulated. The Sydney Opera ridden by Frank Reys, at 41 the House offi cially opened, oldest jockey in the race, dived

Now for my jokes--. BBenjamin’senjamin’s Q. Why do some golfers wear two pairs of pants ? PPirateirate CClublub A. In case they get a hole in one. Q. What part of the car causes most ‘Fact or Fancy --- accidents?

Ahoy me hearties, There is a fanciful notion that A. The nut behind the wheel. pirates are accustomed to making Nobody has sent any pirate jokes New topic. their victims walk to their doom that I asked for last time, so come along a plank placed over the side As I promised last time this issue on you fellow Pirate Clubbers, send of a vessel, however, although contains some things about me some jokes or stories soon as I many admit to having heard of Pirateology, here they are. am running out of ideas. this punishment, I have yet to ‘Rough Justice. --- encounter a pirate or a pirate And if you don’t you may have to Pirate punishments are swift and hunter who has actually witnessed ‘walk the plank’ ha, ha. harsh as these rogues have no anyone engaging in this practice’. ‘Shiver me timbers, that’s it’ regard for lawful authority, the fact So these are the kind of interesting Pirate Ben. that they are engaged in piracy things in Captain William Lubber’s means they face the death penalty Pirateology handbook which Laurie COME ON’ all you PARENTS, if captured. In consequence, they brought have little respect for human life GRANDPARENTS, etc. JOIN UP for me in your CHILDREN in our PIRATE and the sufferings of their victims England. are often considered entertainment CLUB for JUST $5 —to foster their for the rest of the crew’. love for all things connected with the sea and help insure the future of and now – our wonderful Maritime Museum of Tasmania in this Island state. —Ed.

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 21 MARINERS COTTAGE ANTIQUES and FLYNN’S CAFÉ. As is the case with all companies we select as suitable to advertise in our quarterly publication, they come highly recommended and we ask our members to patronize them and all our other advertisers and sponsors whenever possible. Errol Flynn Centenary The twentieth of June will mark the cen- and include Robin Hood, Sea Hawk, Cap- Errol in Hobart. Be sure to pick up a copy at tenary of the birth of Errol Flynn. Born at tain Blood, Dawn Patrol, Don Juan and the tourist information centre during the Queen Alexandra Hospital in Hampden Charge of the Light Brigade. Be listening to week of celebrations. Rd Battery Point, to Professor Theodore ABC radio leading up to this date for your For further information on the Thomson-Flynn and Lilly Mary Thomson- chance to win tickets to a special screen- celebrations visit our website – Flynn, Errol became the most famous of ing of Robin Hood. In conjunction with the www.fl ynncentenarycelebration.com.au Tasmanians. Some remember Errol for be- fi lm festival there will be a plaque laying ing a larrikin, a trait that is enjoyed by many outside the State Theatre to commemo- Australians, but most would remember his rate the centenary of Errol’s birth. STOP PRESS acting on the silver screen in such roles as The Heart Foundation is holding their gala Robin Hood or Captain Blood. AFL fans WILL SEE a TASMANIAN ball again this year with the theme of Errol TEAM play in Melbourne in 2009. A committee has been formed in Hobart Flynn and pirates. It is hoping that many to plan and implement a celebration of patrons will come in pirate attire and enjoy Yes, you read it here fi rst. his life. They have been working for many the special entertainment planned along months now to put together a program that theme. Sandy Bay under 12's will represent of events to help celebrate the centenary. the Sydney Swans in the little Rory Flynn will once again be visiting The program of events will start with the league game to be played during Hobart for the festivities but this time is launch of a display at the Tasmanian Mu- the half time interval of the Carlton bringing her son, Sean Flynn. Sean, like his seum and Art Gallery on the 12th June. The v Swans match at Etihad Stadium grandfather, is an actor and can be seen on display will be in the foyer of the museum ABC and Pay TV in a show titled Zoey 101. on Saturday July 18. and contain memorabilia sourced from It will be his fi rst trip to Tasmania and he is Tasmania and around the world. "Soc’ it to ‘em”, Sandy Bay. truly hoping to get time to enjoy some of Then there is to be a fi lm festival at the the attractions that we have to off er. I'm sure you will do the Red & State Theatre in Elizabeth St North Hobart. White colours proud. The Hobart City Council is publishing a Sessions will be both matinee and evening new tourist brochure detailing the life of

22 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 Nautical Crossword IV

SUPPLIERS OF MARINE EQUIPMENT AND SAILMAKERS TO HOBART

SINCE 1964 Answer to question on page 4 -- John William 12-25 Morrison Street, Hobart Pilbean Goffage GPO Box 1099, Hobart, 7001 (Chips Rafferty) Phone. 03 6234 5422 Fax. 03 6223 7797 [email protected]

What’s in a name? The Errol Flynn In the recent tragic bush fi res in Victoria one Society of Tasmania heart warming story that emerged was about a volunteer fi refi ghter stopping to give a burnt and founded 1979 traumatized koala a drink from his water bottle. To become a member of our happy band and enjoy our monthly social ‘Sam’, as the koala was later named, had his life events, just contact: saved by a man named TREE and a lady named Genene on (03) 62494700 or WOOD who became his carer and nursed him errolfl [email protected] NowNow on SSaleale back to health. You will be made most welcome. at MMT Bookshop

Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008 | 23 24 | Maritime Times of Tasmania Summer 2008