TS Wanganella

The Wanganella was a passenger vessel built in 1929 by Harland and Wolff in Belfast. Originally constructed for Elder Dempster's West African service, she was laid up after trials before being purchased by Huddart Parker Ltd of Melbourne in 1932 for Australian coastal trade.

Construction and Design

Built at the Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast, the Wanganella featured elegant internal decoration including paneled timber in various woods and decorative tapestries. The vessel was designed with multiple passenger decks to accommodate both first and second-class travelers.

Service History

Though initially intended for West African service, the vessel was laid up following her trials in 1929. In 1932, she found new purpose when purchased by Huddart Parker Ltd of Melbourne for Australian coastal operations, with Melbourne serving as her home port.

Key Facts

Specification	Details
Built	1929
Builder	Harland and Wolff, Belfast
Gross Tonnage	9,876
Length	461.2 ft (140.6 m)
Beam	63.9 ft (19.5 m)
Draught	34.7 ft (10.6 m)
Power	8,500 bhp
Propulsion	Twin screws
Service Speed	14.5 knots
Maximum Speed	17 knots
Passenger Capacity	291 First Class, 69 Second Class
Signal Letters	VJPQ