Waratah, a coal-fired tug, was built at Cockatoo Island, Sydney and launched on the 21st May 1902. Originally named Burunda, her primary role was to tow dredges and barges between the various ports along the NSW coast.
She is the oldest tug in working order in Australia. She carried a crew of 14, including six officers who were accommodated in separate cabins aft.
With raked funnel and counter stern, Waratah has the graceful proportions of a vessel of her era.
Her sea-going days nearly ended in 1948 when, due to her age and condition, she was restricted to Newcastle Harbour. In 1968 it was announced that the old tug was beyond economical repair and was to be disposed of for scrap. The Sydney Heritage Fleet, realising her historical importance, acted to save her and proceeded to purchase the vessel from the Department of Public Works. After a subsequent five-year restoration program she is now, once again, fully operational.
The Waratah’s authentic restoration has gained the Fleet world-wide recognition for historic ship preservation.
A superb painting of Waratah in action in her youth, preparing to tow a square rigger, can be seen on the website of noted Australian marine artist Robert Carter. Prints are available.
For dates of scheduled public trips on Waratah, and links for more information and for bookings, see What's On When.
Waratah is available for charter and is suitable for corporate and private functions such as weddings, birthdays and other events. Operating times are 10:00am to 10:00pm, on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. She carries 49 passengers on four-hour cruises of Sydney Harbour.
For further charter information, or to make a charter reservation, contact the Membership Co-ordinator on 02 9298 3841 or email mdalton@shf.org.au
