Community
1 September, 2023
Rowing fun on the Moyne
ANYONE wanting to give rowing a try should head to Port Fairy each Saturday afternoon and join the fun on the ‘Shearwater’ whaleboat.
Since 2018 the ‘Shearwater’ has been gracing the waters of the Moyne River from Port Fairy. Its origins date back to 2015 with the formation of Port Fairy Heritage Boats Inc.
This came about after a group of rowers decided that, after years of ‘messing about in boats’, it was time to build a replica whaleboat for Port Fairy.
One of the members, Robert Whitehead, had built a whaleboat while working as a boat builder at Flagstaff Hill in the 1990s. With the formation of Port Fairy Heritage Boats Inc, the group set about seeking grants and raising funds to make the dream possible.
In June 2015 a grant was obtained from the Port Fairy Folk Festival, and the Huon pine was ordered.
Other grants followed from Moyne Shire, Pacific Hydro, South West Foundation, Port Fairy Tourist Association and Bendigo Bank. “Shearwater” was built by local Port Fairy boatbuilder, Garry Stewart – a craftsman of his trade.
Garry was assisted by Robert Whitehead who contributed many volunteer hours, as well as members of Port Fairy Heritage Boats. Garry and Robert based their build on plans for a 1933 Charles Beetle whaleboat.
Work progressed and eventually the whaleboat “Shearwater” was launched by Her Excellency the Honourable Linda Dessau AC Governor of Victoria on March 9, 2018.
Port Fairy now has a beautiful whaleboat to be proud of and is listed as a wonderful community asset. She is a magnifi cent attraction for visitors when viewed from the banks of the Moyne River. Anyone wanting to keep fit and make new friends is welcome to join the group for a row on the scenic Moyne River.
The group meets at the historic lifeboat station on Griffi the Street, Port Fairy each Saturday from 1pm. No previous rowing experience is required however the minimum age is 16 years.
All equipment is provided. The rowers are also fortunate to have access to another whaleboat, ‘Sir Fletcher Jones’, courtesy of Moyne Shire.
