Historical information

This signal lamp was originally fitted on the steam tug 'Wattle'

Significance

RAN Career 1932 to 1969: Wattle's construction and career as a non-commissioned vessel of the Royal Australian Navy.
Saved from the Scrapyard 1969 to 1979: Sydney-based enthusiasts rescue Wattle from the scrapyard, forming an association with Sydney Heritage Fleet.
Melbourne Pleasure Steamer 1979 to 2007: A volunteer group brings Wattle to Melbourne to restore, then sails Port Phillip on outings and excursions.
Restoration Journey 2007 to 2015: Wattle is hoisted onto the hard to undergo major restoration work.
Back in the Water, 2015 to present: Wattle returns to the water for further restoration, and in 2019 sails again on Port Phillip.

Physical description

Brass candle powered signal lamp with a lens circumference of 14cm, mounted on a timber plinth

Inscriptions & markings

Sundercombes Patent Eclipse

Subjects

References

  • Steam tug Wattle The steam tug Wattle was launched at Cockatoo Island in 1933 and worked with the Royal Australian Navy until 1969, then Wattle arrived in Melbourne in 1979 to become an iconic sight steaming on pleasure cruises around Port Phillip. It now still pl