BARWON

BARWON (2)

1939 - 72

Australian

4,239 gross tons, 3,353 net.

Lbd: 378'4" x 50'4" x 22'7". (111.86 x 15.33m).

Steel single screw steamer built by Caledon Ship Building & Engine Co. Ltd., Dundee in 1939 to the order of Huddart Parker, Melbourne. 4th June 1942 attacked by a submarine when 35 nautical miles south of Gabo Island, hit by shells, but torpedoes fired at her missed and she managed to escape, Originally coal-fired, she was propelled by a 3- cylinder triple expansion and lp dr turbine by J. Kincaid, Greenock; was single screwed with a speed of 10 knots. She was converted to oil firing in April 1957.

Mid 1961 transferred to McIlwraith McEacharn fleet. With the creation of Associated Steamships Pty. Ltd., Melbourne (ASP - the amalgamation of McIlwraith McEacharn Ltd and The Adelaide Steamship Co. Ltd.) in November 1963, she became an ASP fleet member on 7 January 1964 from the McIlwraith McEacharn fleet.

She entered service as a unit-loader in May 1966 and soldiered on until October 1969 when she was sold and delivered at Port Adelaide to the Wing On Steamship Co. SA, Panama, being renamed Ability. 1971 renamed New Ability. Wrecked off Kaohsiung 6th June 1972

Information supplied by John E. Hoskin www.flotilla-australia.com/

PS The above may not be wholly correct, if you have further details please add it below...Thank you!

Photo Credits: The late Allan Green Vic Australia

Cheers and GB

Gordy