FIRE ON A BARQUE.

Otago Witness, Issue 2579, 19 August 1903, Page 27

FIRE ON A BARQUE.

SYDNEY, August 14. • The four-masted barque Dunmore, which arrived from London on Sunday, took fife at 1 o'clock this morning ofl Watson's Bay. The fire broke out with a rapidity which almost paralysed the watchman. Tugs were quickly in attendance, and began to pump water into the vessel. The outbreak is believed to be amongst the turpentine, tar, and other inflammable substances. As the fire gained ground rapidly the whole consignment of explosives was jettisoned. All efforts to cope with the fire failed, and as the vessel was down by the head it was decided at 4 o'clock to beach her to prevent her sinking. She was therefore towed to Rose Bay and grounded. At 7.20 a.m. the fire was still burning. The vessel will have to be entirely flooded before the fire can be extinguished. At noon the after part of the Dunmore settled down. The deck is awash in the fore part, which grounded. She is still burning, and pumping is being continued. At 2 o^lock the fire on the Dunmore was practically in hand. The vessel was being rapidly pumped full of water. The cargo of the Dunmore is valued at £36,000. Tho bulk is covered by insurance, which is held by the principal offices. The South British Company has a line, but the amount has not transpired.