HELP IDENTIFY THIS WOODEN BOAT

Woody John Dawson sent in the above photo, but wasn’t able to ID the vessel, I have an idea but better to throw it open to the WW readers. (apologise for small photo size)

Suggestions in the comments box would be appreciated.

INPUT ex Ken Ricketts – It’s the FLORAY, built by & for Major, (Christian name, not rank), Bailey, on his back lawn on the corner of Wheturangi & Greenlane Rds., in 1948-49 using the frames from Hec Goodfellow’s RANUI, borrowed from RANUI’s builders, Roy Lidgards boatbuilders.

She was named after his wife Flo & his only son Ray.

Her name was later changed to LEILANI, & I believe she is now neglected beyond repair, & was last seen on a hillside property at Thames by me, several years ago.

Alan H Comment – There is speculation as to the build, with Harold Kidd commenting previously that Lidgard built the hull and she was finished by her owner. Also the name as launched could have been FLORAE, or maybe thats what it was registered as. Whether way, sad that she has ended up in a paddock. Photo in the 2023 story – WW Aug2023  https://waitematawoodys.com/2023/08/09/leilani-florae-floray-jolly-roger/

And if your not on the WW email list – details on Fridays Woodys Lunch Cruise to the waterfront Riverhead Tavern below

For those skippers / boats taking part in Fridays Classic Woodys Riverhead Tavern Lunch cruise – see below details re meeting times etc.

If your boat is out for winter maintenance or you are boat less, coming by car is an option to consider.

DATE : FRIDAY 20 JUNE (4 days away)

MEETING LOCATION: HERALD ISLAND / LUCAS CREEK AREA

DEPARTURE > RIVER: 11.45am

ARRIVE PUB: APPROX 12.15PM

HW= 2.10 – TIDE = 2.88m

DEPART PUB: 3.00pm >> (skippers call, if in doubt leave/follow the ferry)

Being a public holiday there will be 2 ferries making the trip, so please give them right of way on the river and at the jetty. 

PLEASE BRING YOUR DINGHY – as jetty space is very limited.

Reviewing the list of boats that have RSVP’ed, I think all have braved the river before so skippers should be ok with navigation and anchoring spots, if you want a refresh, email me and I will supply details. AND REMEMBER ME TRAVEL IN INDIAN FILE UP THE RIVER – no overtaking.