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Letters
Interested in history of HMAS Creswell sail training dinghy built around 1920 in Moruya and used at Creswell for cadet training Please help John learn more about this dinghy at the Discussion Forum for Ahoy - Mac's Web Log I am a Senior Technology Conservator at the Australian War Memorial, have just discovered this forum, and thought I would try it for information on an interesting project I have.
I am a member of the Traditional Boat Squadron in Canberra, and we were recently given a small sailing dinghy, unfortunately in very bad condition (has been left in the weather for many years). Before conserving the little boat I wish to gain as much history about it as I can, and this is where you Mac, or your readers, may be able to assist - all information appreciated. The boat is a 12 foot Huon pine clinker centreboard sailing dinghy. Word of mouth is that it was built around 1920 in Moruya and used at Creswell for cadet training.
It has no sheer (flat profile along the gunwales) Looks like it was painted white at some period with broad blue and red bands along the hull. The most distinguishing features are the name "Boatsman' painted on either bow and on the transom. Also on the transom, carefully inlaid in a contrasting wood, a 4 inch German swastika! The boat may have been varnished when this was applied. Can any ex Creswellians throw any light (info, dates)on this vessel for me? Regards to all John John Kemister (Another contact gave information that the swastika was a common good luck symbol pre WW2 and sent some images of swastikas on sails.)
Thanks again for your help. |
