Hubbock

A classic workboat

Recently the habour master of Victoria Harbour, Melbourne had the need for a new work boat. The usual range of activities were called for, putting up signs, checking moorings, a little towing (or pushing) transporting staff or VIP's and so on. There is no end to the duties such a boat must fulfill. The previous boat had been a large inflatable which though excellent in many ways was not a success at the wide range of activities called for.

 

 

A process of auditioning various production boats was instigated but a satisfactory model was not found. "Then", the harbourmaster recalled "Everywhere I went I saw other workboats employed, and they were mainly traditional launches". This led to an enquiry to the Wooden Boat Centre for a suitable boat. It had to incorporate all those characteristics so beloved of traditional boats, their stability, comfort, seaworthiness and that reliable diesel!

 

 

With the ability to computer model a proposed design, and to CNC cut the majority of parts, we were able to make a competitive bid for a compressively equipped traditional clinker launch in Survey and secure a very interesting project.