The Undine Restoration Project Sets Sail into History
In the world of maritime heritage, the Undine, is on the verge of completing a remarkable journey of restoration, promising to revive not only a wooden boat but also a piece of Tasmania’s maritime legacy.
As we approach the final stages of the Undine restoration project, it’s fitting to reflect on the significance of this endeavour and the collaborative efforts that have brought this iconic Derwent Class vessel back to life.
A Glimpse into History
Undine, is a classic wooden boat originally built in 1948 in a suburban Hobart backyard. Its sleek lines and sturdy construction made it a testament to the craftsmanship of its era, a vessel that proved even the unexperienced could enter the world of sailing.
The 24ft Derwent Class (D13) was built by Don Colbourn for P & D Hadlow, with the design originating from A.C Barber and Percy C Douglass. Undine was launched on the 8th November 1948, commencing a memorable sailing season out of the Derwent Sailing Squadron.
The D Class yacht dates back to the early 1920’s, when a suggestion arose to build a middle range yacht, between the cadet style dinghies and the bigger A class racing yachts. After some trials and tribulations, alterations to the design were made by Edwin H Webster and Percy Coverdale. By the late 1920’s, three vessels had been built.
Amateur builders gained access to copies of the plans from the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania, and throughout the next 40 or so years several D Class yachts were built, with celery top pine being the most common construction timber, as Huon pine was rather expensive at the time.
By 1961 Undine had been converted to another style of yacht, and renamed Glenshiel II. This involved adding three extra planks to increase the cabin side, using Oregon.
However, over the years Undine succumbed to the wear and tear of time and elements. It was this realisation that sparked the ambitious restoration project, a collaborative effort led by the Australian Wooden Boat Festival. We thank Roscoe Barnett, AWBF Boat Manager for initiating the project, after he was contacted by the Oyster Cove Marina with an offer too good to refuse.
The Undine was then transported to Franklin, for the Wooden Boat Centre team to make some assessments.
Undine also featured at the Australian Wooden Boat Festival 2023, as part of the Blundstone Shipwright’s Village “Living Restorations” area.
The Journey of Restoration
The Undine restoration project has been a labor of love, spearheaded by a team of skilled shipwrights, craftsmen, and dedicated volunteers. Under the watchful eye of Cody Horgan, the lead Shipwright at the Wooden Boat Centre in Franklin, every plank, every joint, and every detail has undergone meticulous restoration.
One of the key challenges faced by the restoration team was sourcing materials that stayed true to the Undine’s original design. Cody and his team have spent countless hours researching, visiting other Derwent’s to take measurements and speaking with current custodians.
Over 2,500 paid hours have gone into her restoration, as well as that again in volunteer hours (and that was counted prior to the undercoat going on the hull!). Her new cabin sides were crafted from Huon Pine which was steam bent, her ballast was refurbished (she is ballasted by a 700kg lump of lead, held on by 4 x 22mm stainless bolts) and her mast was entirely restored.
Educational Significance
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Undine holds immense educational significance. Some have said that restorations aren’t worth it, but as the restoration nears completion, the vessel has been a classroom for those involved in the project. It has presented as an opportunity to learn, sometimes as the crew went, and develop skills to be used in future projects. Restoration skills are sometimes put to the side in boat building courses, as the demand isn’t as high as it once was. People want new boats built, out of plastic more so than timber.
The Undine project has created a model for future restorations, and Cody from the Wooden Boat Centre is excited to see what other projects come the center’s way.
Community Collaboration
At the heart of the Undine restoration project is a spirit of community collaboration. The Australian Wooden Boat Festival has brought together a diverse group of individuals united by a passion for maritime heritage. Skilled shipwrights, enthusiastic volunteers, and supporters from various walks of life have contributed their time and expertise to ensure the success of this project.
This project would have not been possible without two dedicated philanthropists who have funded the project, every step of the way. These two generous individuals were prepared to invest in the future of our maritime heritage, and have committed to doing so with more restoration projects already lined up. Private investments like this, will ensure our next generations have the opportunity to continue the wooden boat legacy.
We hope to see Undine taken on by a new custodian, to join the D Class community; a group of young folk sailing out of Kettering. Our friends at Southern Wooden Boat Sailing featured the motley crew a few years back, take a read here.
Looking to the Future
As we near the end of Undine’s completion, we look to the future with optimism and anticipation. The vessel’s relaunch is not just a restoration; it’s a rebirth. The Undine’s graceful return to the water symbolises a commitment to preserving our maritime heritage and passing it on to the generations that follow. This is something the AWBF has worked hard to achieve, and we believe it is part of our mission as producers of the iconic event.
As we eagerly await the Undine’s return to the water, let us celebrate the culmination of hard work, passion, and the shared commitment to preserving Tasmania’s maritime legacy.
A Unique Opportunity: Become a Custodian of History
Amidst the excitement of the Undine’s impending relaunch, an extraordinary opportunity awaits those with a passion for maritime heritage and a desire to contribute to the preservation of Tasmania’s cultural legacy. The Undine, now lovingly restored to its former glory, is being offered for sale at the inviting price of $20,000 or nearest offer (ONO).
This unique opportunity to become a custodian of the Undine presents itself as a chance to own a piece of living history. The vessel, once weathered by time and tide, has been meticulously restored, and its sale offers a connection to Tasmania’s maritime past that goes beyond ownership—it’s an invitation to become a steward of tradition.
Supporting the Australian Wooden Boat Festival
The AWBF, under the leadership of Scott Rankin as Chair of the AWBF, and Paul Stephanus, as General Manager, has been at the forefront of preserving and promoting Australia’s rich maritime heritage. By acquiring the Undine, you directly contribute to the AWBF’s mission, enabling us to organise future festivals and initiate projects that celebrate and safeguard our maritime legacy.
The vessel is available for purchase at the inviting price of $20,000 or nearest offer.