SHIP TURNS BACK

Grey River Argus, 8 September 1930, Page 4

SHIP TURNS BACK

In Mid-Tasman OIL FUEL NOT SUFFICIENT. ' (Per Press Association.) AUCKLAND, September 7. After being eight days at sea, during which period she- reached half way to Sydney, the Richardson Coy’s motor ship, “Awahou,” returned to Auckland this morning to replenish her oil fuel' The vessel was recently converted from a steamer to a motor ship at Auckland, and afterwards she proceeded to Whangarei and loaded a timber cargo. She left Whangarei for Sydney on August 30th. Last Tuesday a southwest gale was encountered, against which the Awahou could not progress at a rate over four knots. The amount of oil fuel on board was not sufficient to last over the prolonged trip, so Captain A. AleLachlan decided to make for Auckland to replenish his supplies. When this decision was made the Awahou was 615 miles from Sydney, ami 678 miles from Auckland. Although the gale was severe, the Awahou which is only 410 tons, was very buoyant, and she shipped very little water on deck. The vessel’s new Diesel engine ran perfectly, and gave no trouble, and a larger supply of fuel will be taken on board at Auckland, and she is to sail to-morrow.