NORFOLK ISLAND TRIP

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22131, 10 June 1935, Page 10

NORFOLK ISLAND TRIP

LARGE FISHING LAUNCH DEPARTURE TO-MORROW The large Diesel launch Melodian, owned by Mr. W. C. Mills and sons, of Devonport, will leave for a short trip to Norfolk Island to-morrow morning. The vessel will carry no cargo, but it is probable that a quantity of mail will be taken. It is expected that the launch will take from three and a-half to four days to reach Norfolk Island, and after a stay ot one day will sail on the return journey. If the weather is suitable the party will stop at the Three Kings group for fishing beforo returning to Auckland. The crew will consist of Captain It. Anderson, of Parncll. Mr. Mills, and his. three sons, Messrs. C. C. E. Mills, N. T. Mills and W. Mills. About five tons of fuel will bo carried and the launch consumes from four to five gallons an hour. The Melodian, which was launched last February, is the largest launch in New Zealand built specially for fishing. It has an overall length of 55ft.. beam 14ft. and draught Gffc. She is fitted with a 110 li.p. Dutz Diesel engine capable of driving her at about 9J knots. She has an insulated hold amidships, which will hold 250 baskets of fish, while the crow's quarters are forward. The vessel is the first of the fishing lleet to have a cruiser stern and is of striking appearance. She will bo used for fishing outside the gulf limits and her cruising ranco is about 1000 miles.