LOSS OF THE WONGA WONGA.

Evening Post, Volume II, Issue 78, 11 May 1866, Page 2

LOSS OF THE WONGA WONGA.

FURTHER PARTICULARS. The Grey River Argus of the sth instant furnishes the following account of the steamer's losa, from which it will be seen that Captain Munclle is blameless in this unfortunate affair :—: — It is with very great regret that we announce the loss of the New Zealand Steam Navigation Co.'s steamer Wonga Wonga on Wednesday ' last, whilst attempting to enter the river. At the time of her reaching the bar the tide was ebbing, but as there was not much fresh in the river, and as she and other steamers have frequently done the same thing, Captain Munclle could not expect the disaster which afterwards befel him. I The steamer had got into the river, and all seemed right, when the strong currant from the southward caught the port bow, and slewed her, so that she lost steerage-way, and in a few minutes the unfortunate vessel was cast ashore a short distance north of the signal station. Since her stranding there has been a heavy and high surf, which has knocked her about so much that her back has broken, and other damages have been caused, which have led to her being condemned. She is advertised to be sold by auction by Messrs. Maclean Fisher and Co. to-day. Captain Mun.dk is considered blameless regarding this unfortunate affair, and he has received the following letter from the Harbor Master : — To Captain George Mundle, s.s. Wonga Wonga. Sir — Referring to the stranding of

your vessel on tho 2nd inst., near this port, I hereby certify that at the time you attempted to enter the river the bar was quite practicable. It is quite usual for steamers so crosfe the bar both out and in after the high water signal is down, and the flag denoting ebb tide hoisted. Being present at the time myself at the flagstaff I can testify that the movements of the semaphore were strictly attended to by your vessel. I am, Sir, yours respectfully, Thos. Coulson. Harbor office, Greymoufch, 4th May, 18 66. [Ciipt. Mundle may bo expected here by the next boat from Hokitika. He is at present waiting for the official investigation on the loss of his vessel. Paul Bros., of Nelson, were the purchasers of the hull machinery and lower masts of the Wonga Wonga. When she was first beached tenders were called for her re-launch, and one for <£370 was accepted but it was found impracticable.