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Scow-hulled ketch
built to carry cargo in the NZ coastal trade.
NZ's only example of a genuine scow in operational
condition; 130 were built between late 1800's
and 1930. Later a motor harbour lighter
at Auckland. Currently (2001) being restored
as a sailing vessel.
During July 1999
it was discovered that the ninetyone-year-old
vessel needs a major refit before it can
resume its Manukau Harbour public cruises
as a working exhibit of the Waiuku Museum.
Some of the 22-metre vessel's timbers were
found to be rotten, but the full extent
of the damage could not be ascertained until
a leaking false deck was removed. Initial
estimates for repairs ranged from $50,000
for materials using voluntary labour at
no cost, to $210,000 for a refit by a commercial
yard. It was hoped that Lottery Grants Board
funding could be obtained to meet the costs,
as the museum society could not afford repairs
and the vessel's earning power is restricted
by conditions on the tidal Waiuku River,
which allows one trip a day for only a quarter
of the year.
After she came to the end of a hard-working
life as a cargo scow, Captain Bert Subritsky
donated Jane Gifford to the society in 1985.
Seven years later, after a $250,000 restoration
made possible by fundraising, donations
and voluntary and government work scheme
labour, she began a new life as a popular
working exhibit.
In November 2000
she was berthed at Waiuku, out of survey,
and not able to carry paying passengers.
During November 2000 her ownership was transferred
from Waiuku Museum Society to the newly-established
Jane Gifford Trust. Restoration and repair
work was planned to commence in late January
2001 and was due for completion by Christmas
2001.
NZ Marine News Vol.
48, No.3, Vol. 50, No,2
In August 2005 Jane
Gifford was taken ashore and active
reconstruction commenced at a site in
Warkworth.
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