Forum > Preserved Paddle Ships

William the Fourth (Newcastle, NSW, Australia)

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tonyh:
Hi all,
After watching 'The Liners' DVD (which I bought from the local bargain shop), I couldn't help but notice this lovely little paddler from Australia. 
Can anyone advise as to the progress with the vessels restoration progress? An older thread existed some years ago, but this is now obviously out of date.

Tony.

Roderick Smith:
I have heard nothing, and suspect that that is because nothing has happened.  You might try looking over the island in Google View (which tends to be fuzzy and older) or Nearmap (sharper and more recent, but not with all areas covered yet).
As you will see from the earlier thread, it was on the hard, in a secure compound.  I don't know how much deterioration could occur without some conservation work; or funding for restoration work was obtained.

It is a long trek for Wollongong-based Derek to travel just to do a check.  There is only a quick glimpse available from the public side of the harbour.  Entry to the compound is not just a matter of fronting to the gate and signing in: approval has to be gained from the main office, in advance.

Regards,
Roderick B Smith
Rail News Victoria Editor

Barry:
Seems they're struggling to get it going.
http://vimeo.com/12040599

tonyh:
Thanks for the replies.
It is worth watching the two previous clips to the one in the link (by Barry). The clip showing timber steaming and bending during the vessels construction is interesting.

Roderick Smith:
It is pleasing to see the progress until the money ran out; I had feared that deterioration would set in too far.

The hugely-expanded maritime museum, on the waterfront in the heart of the city (amongst yuppie apartment buildings and water-view restaurants), is hopeful that the vessel will be moored alongside and operate from there.  That seems logical: mutual reinforcement, and possibly more support forthcoming.  I don't know what the preservation group thinks.
I had a conversation way back that the vessel is hard to handle, and might be a liability in an area with major shipping; keep it out of harms way.
I suspect that the vessel is no harder to handle than a Murray one: less windage on the vessel (although in a more-windswept waterway), and with a deeper keel than a Murray riverboat.
The cruise up Hunter River to Morpeth is very attractive, and Morpeth is a tourist town in its own right, with restaurants and pubs for visitors.  Local harbour tours are interesting, with a range of modern and old wharves to view.

Regards,
Roderick B Smith
Rail News Victoria Editor

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