Steam Trawler A Total Loss

Grey River Argus, 21 March 1947, Page 6

Steam Trawler A Total Loss

P.A. WELLINGTON, March 20. Information from Blenheim obtained at the scene of the wreck today, indicates that it is almost certain the 237 ton Wellington steam trawler ‘‘Futurist’’ which went ashore on the very extremity of Long Point, about four miles to the north of Ward township in the early hours of yesterday morning, will not be salvaged. She is regarded by her skipper, Captain A. Sutherland, as a total loss.

This morning, when a party rode out over the hills to the scene of the stranding from Mr. A. F. Loe’s homestead, they found the vessel wedged so firmly on the rocky shelf amongst the breakers some threehundred yards from the beach, that, not the biggest of the waves caused even her masts to sway.

“I’m afraid she’s finished. I think the bottom’s out of her,” said Captain Sutherland. “I told my owners it was not worth while making an attempt to drag her off. She must be all smashed to bits.” It was found impossible to get out to the vessel this morning, owing to her situation among the rocks, and it is unlikely that she will be boarded for the recovery of personal effects and valuable gear before she breaks up. At the moment the sea has moderated, but the location is extremely exposed to the southerly weather.