SALVAGE FROM THE WAIKARE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 17576, 18 March 1919, Page 6

SALVAGE FROM THE WAIKARE

TRIP BY EXODBSIONISTS. On J&mrary 4, 19H), the steamer Waikare was wrecked at Dusky Sound. Sine© then more than one salvage expedition has bean undertaken. The latest was about three •weeks ago, when the Manaroa, purchased for the purpose by Messrs Miller Bros., of Port Chalmers, left Dunedin for the West Coast. The steamer was specially fitted out for tho work, and also carried a number of excursionists, who availed themselves of tho opportunity of visiting the coastal beauty • spots which aro renowned throughout the world. At Stowart Island tho ketch Water Lily was picked up 'and taken in tow. Dusky Sound was reached on March 2, and in a convenient motor launch the excursionists were convoyed round tho neighbouring coves and fiords, a very pleasant time being spent in sight-seeing and fishing. Tho Manaroa endeavoured to reach Milford Sound, but untoward weather prevented this trip. The excursionists consoled themselves with the beauties around Wet Jacket Arm and Luncheon Cove. On the return trip rough seas and a strano- wind were encountered before reaching the Bluff, ■where the voyagers disembarked. Salvage operations were begun on Monday morning, the 3rd inst., Mr A. Miller, in diving costume, surveying the wreck, •which he found little altered. Several anchors, davites, and other material lying close to the wreck were recovered. Operations aro boing conducted from the Water Lily, and when the Manaroa left work was in full swing , , with every prospect of complete success. A large hole in the bow of the wreck was made by a previous salvage party, but it was Mr Miller's intention to make another hole in the hull in order to reach the machinery, practically the whole of which ft is • expected will be recovered.