SEA TEST OF WANGANELLA IN SEPTEMBER

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22690, 15 July 1948, Page 6

SEA TEST OF WANGANELLA IN SEPTEMBER

(P.A.) WELLINGTON. July 15. Although the date of the Wanganella’s return to the trans-Tasman service was not definitely known, a flotation test of repairs would be carried out in September, said the New Zealand manager of the Huddart Parker Line, Mr. N. D. McLean, yesterday. A great deal would depend on the result of the trial. For the test the Wellington floating dock would be lowered, and the ship, still in position, would enter the water. The interior would then be inspected. No trouble was expected, as the repair work was being excellently done. Once the ship had been found seaworthy. little time would be lost in returning her to service, added Mr. McLean. All the fittings for the public rooms were still stored aboard. A crew of 150 would have to be brought across from Australia. Asked whether the Wanganella would carry passengers from New Zealand to Australia when she first returned to service. Mr. McLean said that this was still indefinite.

FOUR SALVAGE CLAIMS FOR USE OF TUGS

(P.A.) WELLINGTON, July 14. Four claims against the Huddart Parker Company in connection with the salvage of the liner Wanganella arc set down for hearing beginning on September 28 in the Supreme Court, Wellington, in Admiralty jurisdiction. The hearing is likely to last about three weeks.

The parties arc- the Wellington Harbour Board, the Wanganui Harbour Board and the Union Steam Ship Company, as owners of various tugs, along with the complement of the tugs, and the Eastbourne Borough Council along with the crew of the ferry steamer Cobar which brought passengers and luggage ashore while the Wanganella was fast on Barrett's Reef.