Russel Ward’s Romany (see steam.co.nz). A lovely boat in a fabulous setting
Reader Owen Sinclair has written in with a short report and some stunning photos from the 2011 New Zealand Antique & Classic Boatshow at Lake Rotoiti. His photos appear on this weblog with his permission. Many thanks Owen!
Here’s what he says:
‘Hello Gavin,
‘Numbers seemed to be down this year, presumably due to the Christchurch earthquake, and perhaps also due to a forecast for heavy rain. But after heavy rain early in the morning the clouds cleared and the day became brilliantly sunny.
‘This whaleboat was built recently by Ron Perano to the lines of a whaleboat built in Tasmania and used for whaling in Cook Strait, and donated to the Canterbury Museum in 1926. I think this was one of the few shore-based whale fisheries in the world. The Perano family was one of several associated with whaling and has many descendants in the area today.
‘Another whaling family was the Guard family, and a Guard was on the whaleboat today. I was offered a row, an entirely new experience. The oars are long, heavy, flexible and pivot between thole pins. Although it was an impromptu crew with half probably aged over 70 the boat moved along really well with six rowers and a man steering with a sweep oar. A wonderful opportunity, greatly enjoyed. Thank you Messrs Perano and Guard.
Romany – see owner Russell Ward’s website: steam.co.nz .
Canoe-yawl built to the lines of Eel, a George Holmes design, by a man from Timaru whose name I unfortunately didn’t get. He has built many boats and it shows.
Hamilton jetboat built about ’73, steam launch, stitch and tape version of Rushton’s Wee Lassie, and a lug yawl designed and built by an Australian boatbuilder. I think this boat and some detail of the builder was posted recently on Dave Perillo’s website: openboat.co.nz .
The yellow boat in this shot is a John Welsford Whaler, built and sailed by Peter Murton.
Trailer built in Oregon pine, otherwise known as Douglas fir. I didn’t see what it carries. Nice work!
Pipedream, built in England.
‘Regards,
‘Owen Sinclair’
