MV Kooraka
The Kooraka was a steel-hulled motor vessel built in 1925 for Coast Steamships Ltd of South Australia. Designed as a diesel-powered version of the earlier Kopoola, she served the company's coastal routes for over three decades.
Construction and Design
Built by G. Brown and Co Ltd in Greenock, Scotland (yard number 137235), the vessel was constructed to serve South Australian coastal communities. She was originally powered by a Dutch Kromhaut engine developing 350 BHP.
Pre-War Service
The Kooraka operated regular services from Port Adelaide, particularly to Stansbury and Port Vincent. She was capable of carrying 130 passengers on day excursions to these ports, or up to 300 passengers on shorter trips from Port Adelaide or Glenelg. Historical photographs document her regular cargo operations at Kangaroo Island, particularly the loading of sheep via chutes.
Wartime Service
During World War II, the vessel was requisitioned by the Australian Government and transferred to the U.S. Navy to support the war effort. During this period, she received a new U.S. 6-cylinder Atlas motor rated at 320 BHP, giving her a speed of 8 knots.
Post-War Operations
The Kooraka returned to Coast Steamships Ltd on August 28, 1947, resuming her coastal duties until 1960.
Final Years
In 1960, the vessel was withdrawn from service and sold to S. Segoe in the New Hebrides, where she was renamed Aldebaran. Her career came to an end when she was wrecked in January 1966 at New Caledonia.
Key Facts
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Built | 1925 |
| Builder | G. Brown and Co Ltd, Greenock, Scotland |
| Dimensions | 135.3 x 24.6 x 7.8 feet |
| Tonnage | 300 gross, 154 nett |
| Original Engine | Dutch Kromhaut-350 BHP |
| Later Engine | U.S. 6-cylinder Atlas motor (320 BHP) |
| Nominal Horsepower | 192 nhp |
| Passenger Capacity | 130 (day excursions), 300 (short trips) |
| Construction | Steel hull, single screw |