“The Press” In 1865

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30682, 23 February 1965, Page 12

“The Press” In 1865

February 23. LAUNCH ON THE HEATHCOTE.— Yesterday an interesting occurence took place on the River Heathcote, near the Ferry bridge, being no less than the launch of the first vessel built on this river. The vessel to be launched was a finely modelled boat intended for the Peninsular trade, of about 28 tons burden, built by Mr Joseph Dixon, of the Ferry, to the order of Mr Stevens. The dimensions of the craft are as tollows:—Length on keel, 36ft: over all, 42ft; breadth of beam, 12ft; and depth of hold, 4ft 9in. It is intended to rig ner as a ketch, and from her light draught of water (only 2ft when launched, and about 4ft 9in when loaded), she

will be a great acquisition to the trade for which she is designed. The whole of the timber used in the construction of this vessel is the produce of this Province; and Mr Dixon, the builder, informs us that the wood is peculiarly adapted for the purpose of ship building. The time of launching had been fixed for half-past two, and shortly after that time the stay shores having been locked away, the vessel glided into the water, and was christened the Quiver by Miss Dixon, the daughter of the builder, amidst the cheers of the spectators. The Quiver was then moored alongside a vessel off the jetty, when the company assembled on board of her to wish success to the new undertaking, and her i proprietors and builders.