AURORA
Now this has to be the coolest old woody I have seen. Aurora was built for Caesar Roose after he had sold the Waikato Shipping Company.
She was built in Auckland and railed down to Mercer, where he had her finished off.
In the photo, Ray Morey believes that its a very special occasion eg a Vice-Regal picnic. Sitting in the bow is Frank (Cappy) Charlton, whose father was a Raglan ship owner. Frank’s mother was a Maori of some rank in the Waingaro area. Frank had been a launchman employed by Caesar Roose for many years.
Input from Ray Morey – designed and built by Bailey & Lowe. Finished off by Willy’s father W.H.Oliver (also Willoughby but known as Bill) Willy was only 11 years at the launching. She was burnt one night by persons unknown about 100 yds from where she was completed and launched. engine was originally a 40 hp. Sterling
I could imagine Aurora at events like the Mahurangi Regatta – speaking of which, save a few dollars in your Xmas budget to buy a copy of the Mahurangi Year Book, Steve Horsley is back at the helm with the design and production and he assures me the ratio of yachts and launches is looking good. Should be in the shops (Boat Books) mid December 😉
COOL PATIO BAY PRIZE
I have secured off the author / publisher – Brian Peet, a copy of the book ‘DES TOWNSON – A SAILING LEGACY’ – the winner of the handicap (mark-foy) yacht race e.g. 1st across the line – will collect the $80 book. DETAILS HERE https://destownson.co.nz
Now relax launch owners, there will be some WW merchandise for you – details tomorrow 🙂
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designed and built by Bailey & Lowe. Finished off by Willy’s father W.H.Oliver (also Willoughby but known as Bill) Willy was only 11 years at the launching. She was burnt one night by persons unknown about 100 yds from where she was completed and launched. engine was originally a 40 hp. Sterling
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Possibly finished by a young Willie Oliver,as he work for awhile with Caesar Roose,& lived in the Pukekawa/Mercer area.
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Yes we can see Steve at the helm!
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Does anyone know who built her and what became of her?
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