Name/TitlePhotograph, "Shamrock"

About this object"Shamrock" - the second trawler to be commissioned by Ron McLean from master boat builder, Bill Ryan in Taree.

The “Shamrock” had a very interesting history. Built at a cost of $45,000, the 54-foot trawler was powered by a 220 hp Mercedes diesel engine.

However, within twelve months of the build new regulations were introduced by the Martime Services Board (MSB) restricting the types of vessels working the open seas. The MSB informed Ron McLean that the planking on “Shamrock” was 1/8 inch under size and the ribbing was ¼ inch under as well. The only water the “Shamrock” could work was inside the port, which she was not designed to do. Caught fishing outside the heads would incur a $240.00 fine per day. Ron remained defiant and locked horns with the MSB on a number of occasions. Finally in October 1972, following extreme media pressure and intervention by MSB President, Mr. W.H. Brotherson, Ron received a Certificate of Survey enabling him to work his boat outside the heads.

Place MadeOceania, Australia, New South Wales, Taree

MakerRyan, Bill

Maker RoleBoat Builder

Date Made1954

PeriodLate 20th Century

Formatjpeg

Object TypeFishing Vessel

Subject and Association KeywordsBoat building

Subject and Association KeywordsBoats

Subject and Association KeywordsFishing - commercial

Subject and Association KeywordsPrawning

Subject and Association KeywordsDiesel Engine

Subject and Association KeywordsRegatta

Subject and Association KeywordsMaritime Services Board

Object numberTMA2021.00178

Copyright Licence