YACHT LOST IN GALE Capsize In Wind Change

Press, Volume XCVI, Issue 28413, 21 October 1957, Page 10

YACHT LOST IN GALE Capsize In Wind Change

(New Zealand Press Association) NEW PLYMOUTH. October 20. The Z-class> yacht, Wanda, was lost during the high wind and heavy seas that struck Port Taranaki today. She is the New Plymouth Yacht Club’s first loss for 20 years.

Weighing between 150 and 2001 b. and 12ft 6in long, the Wanda was caught by a sudden wind change at about 11 a.m. The Wind, which had been blowing from the west, veered round to the south-east, blowing the yacht out to sea. On board the vessel were her skipper. 13-year-old Trevor Barry, the owner, Richard Newman, aged 15, and his brother, David Newman, aged 10. All are from New Plymouth. A small motor launch, the Zodiac, put out with the club’s rear commodore, Mr B. J. Slyfteld, and six others aboard. Before she was very far out, the engines failed. The motor launch, Lady Sherrill, captained by Mr A. J Harnish, then put out with the club captain of the yacht club, Mr D. Bellringer, and another member, Mr T. Powerll. aboard

After trying—and failing—to take the Wanda in tow, Messrs Harnish and Powerll took the three boys aboard the Lady Sherrill and then went to the Zodiac's assistance. The Lady Sherrill lowed the Zodiac to safety, and brought the three boys ashore. When last seen, the Wanda was being blown far out to sea in a sinking condition.