Kanowna

The Kanowna was one of the first large coastal passenger steamers to enter service after Australian Federation. Built for the Australasian United Steam Navigation Company's West Australian trade, she would serve multiple roles over her 26-year career, including military transport, hospital ship, and popular tourist vessel.

Construction and Design

Built by William Denny & Brothers of Dumbarton, Scotland, the Kanowna was a twin-screw steamer powered by quadruple expansion engines. To maintain competitiveness with newer vessels, she received an additional boiler in 1914 to increase her speed.

Commercial Service 1903-1914

Initially operating on the West Australian trade routes, the vessel proved adaptable to various services. She was often deployed on the Melbourne-Cairns tourist run, where she gained popularity among passengers. A historic photograph from 1903 by E Ziegler shows her berthed at Queens Wharf Port Adelaide alongside her sister ship Kyarra.

Wartime Service 1914-1920

The Kanowna was briefly requisitioned by the Australian Army in 1914 before being converted to a transport vessel in June 1915. Upon reaching England, she was fitted out as a hospital ship, serving in this capacity until returning to her owners in July 1920.

Final Years 1920-1929

Post-war, the vessel was chartered to the Eastern & Australian Steamship Company for their Far East service before returning to Australian coastal routes. Her career ended on February 17, 1929, when she struck an unnamed islet in the Anser Group while traveling from Sydney to Fremantle. Though towed clear the following day, she quickly took on water and sank. All passengers were safely evacuated to Melbourne by responding vessels.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Gross Tonnage	6,942
Net Tonnage	4,376
Length	415 feet (126.5 meters)
Beam	52 feet (15.8 meters)
Propulsion	Twin screws, quadruple expansion engines
Service Speed	12 knots
Sister Ship	Kyarra