

Lady Ellen’ Restoration – Report 1
I have just received an update from Bruce Mitchinson that details the amazing work being undertaken on Lady Ellen – My comment to Bruce was the she was a very lucky lady – not many launches get this amount to TLC – I’ll let Bruce tell you about the work. Photos below:
“Bilge cleanup done and engine beds re-built to remove rotten sections. New laminated floor at the back to help spread the load of the engine and gearbox, where there was very little support previously. Damaged frame ends removed and new laminated sections spliced in, to run continuous across the keelson. Foredeck re-fastened and fibreglassed to make watertight and to take out the springiness. Bulkhead linings all stripped and new plywood lining has been pre-primed and undercoated ready for installation next week. Rod steering system has been modified, using all the existing components, so that all the workings now sit below the floor, and the wheel lowered to suit the new steering position. New fuel tank beds are being fitted to support the new tanks. Only another 250 copper nails and rooves to replace and we can start painting the inside of the hull.”
You can see & read details on the past work here https://waitematawoodys.com/2017/07/14/lady-ellen-restoration/
13-06-2018 Update from Bruce Mitchinson – Report 2
One year pretty much full time and we have now started on the bits you look at.
Cabin sole framing and floorboards all fitted, and the makings of the new cockpit seating and aft storage. Up to the engine bay, working forward, painting the inside of the hull.
Second coat of epoxy wood primer on over the weekend, should be all white in two weeks’ time, and ready for the engine. Everything that makes it go has been reconditioned or replaced including new shaft bearings, new propeller shaft, and new rudder bearings. Even the windlass has had a complete overhaul, along with the starter motor and the alternators.
Two weeks ago we finished off the last of the hull fastenings and fibreglass so we are all locked up for winter and ready for fairing.
Set up the helm again so we can practice driving when we knock off for a beer at the end of the day.













































































