COOLABAH
AUSTRALIAN - ASB
Built: 1943 - 1968
3,327 gross tons, 1,824 net.
Lbd: 327'10" 46'6" x 20'10". Coal fired steamship built by Ailsa Shipbuilding Co Ltd., Troon as the Empire Dirk for the Ministry of War Transport.

1947 management transferred to Moller Line (U.K.) Ltd., and converted to burn oil as fuel. 1950 sold to Mollers Line Ltd, renamed following year as Nancy Moller. Later in 1951 tranferred to Mount Lines Ltd., renamed Mount Austin with Mollers Ltd as managers. May 1952 sold to the Australian Shipping Board and renamed Coolabah.

Registry in Australia took place October 1954. November 1956 sold to Cambray Breeze Steamship Co Ltd of Hong Kong and renamed Troon Breeze. Mid 1964 transferred to San Fernando Steamship Co S.A., Panama and renamed Cachupin.

1966 sold to Shiu Cheung Shipping & Trading Co Ltd., Panama and renamed Kowloon No 1. 16 September 1967 ran aground and abandoned off Hachinohe (40.32N/141.33E). October 1967, refloated and arrived at Yokosura port after 4 days. Declared a total constructive loss and sold for demolition at Oppama February 1968

Flotilla Australia (John Hoskings) http://www.flotilla-australia.com/

Photo Credits: The Late Allan Green Collection Vic. Australia