MV Lorinna

The Lorinna was a 1,800-ton motor vessel owned by Holyman's of Tasmania which began operating regular cargo services between South Australian ports and Tasmania in 1938. The vessel specialized in bulk cargo transportation including wheat, oats, cement, and timber.

Technical Specifications

The vessel was configured to carry significant grain cargo, with holds arranged to accommodate 22 bags wide amidships and 18 bags high, allowing 396 bags or 4,000 bags per tier.

Operations in 1938

The Lorinna maintained regular service between South Australian ports (including Port Adelaide, Port Pirie, Tumby Bay, Port Lincoln, and Ardrossan) and Tasmanian ports (Launceston, Stanley, and Devonport). The vessel navigated notable landmarks including Dangerous Reef, Cape Wickham, Cape Willoughby, and Margaret Brock.

Cargo operations typically involved multiple gangs of longshoremen ("lumpers") working to load or discharge cargo, with operations often completed within a single day. The crew conducted regular boat drills including rowing and sailing exercises.

Working Life

In 1938, the vessel operated under Captain Bull, with John Tulloch serving initially as third mate before promotion to Chief Officer after his first voyage. The ship maintained regular safety protocols including boat drills and equipment maintenance, with records showing gin blocks being overhauled in August 1938.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Type	Motor Vessel
Tonnage	1,800 tons
Owner	Holyman's of Tasmania
Route	South Australia - Tasmania
Cargo Configuration	22 bags wide x 18 high (396/4000 per tier)
Crew Wages (1936)	£26/15/6 per month
Overtime Rate (1936)	4s 4d per hour

This record is primarily based on diary entries from 1938, particularly focusing on the period June-December of that year.