message #: 167
Date: Sun Oct 6 2024 15:25:50
Name: Peter Horscroft
Email: horscroftpeter9@gmail.com
Country: U.K n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
GOOD MORNING I wonder if i might "trespass on your hospitality" a bit further?? Do
you have any photos of MASB 32 later MASB S32 (and I Still can't find where the 'S' came from (smile)) especially ones of the foredeck which shows the 'Hatchings' and the 'Numbers" since ALL her service was ASR ( we
are just about to float 'S32' (within 6wks) dry her out and restore her to what an HSL would have looked like (2-5yrs)(we already have an MASB (27) up and running!!)) Can you help please Peterh
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message #: 166
Date: Sun Dec 24 2023 06:15:22
Name: Dawn Galletly
Email: dawn.galletly@gmail.com
Country: England (currently on Isle of Man) n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Thanks for the Erskine Childers information.
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message #: 165
Date: Sat Aug 12 2023 01:41:07
Name: Ross Muir
Email: rm.333@hotmail.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hello Ian Thoroughly enjoyed reading your website. I'm a tad puzzled with the history of 'MacHam' as from 1981 to 1993 I worked as the Financial Controller for Dodwell & Co. Australlia P/L and reported to MacHam in
Sydney. It was then managed by Ion Macarthur-Onslow with John Sedgewick overseeing finance. To the best of my recollection MacHam operated at 333 George Street Sydney until around 1990.
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message #: 164
Date: Tue Aug 16 2022 14:15:46
Name: Gerard Email:
Country: FRANCE n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Thank you Michael for this wonderful website full of historical informations! I enjoyed going
through your collection. Many thanks for your help in my research on the demonstration of British Power Boat Company's PV70 prototype Motor Torpedo Boat in speed and sea handling crossing Southampton to Cherbourg in 1939. Kindest Regards Gérard
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message #: 163
Date: Tue Apr 26 2022 20:29:46
Name: Toni Daly
Email: tonidaly@mac.com
Country: New Zealand n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I reached out to Michael because for years I had the sense that the ship I was on returning to the UK from Melbourne Australia (1965) had hit the quay in Singapore but until now I couldn't find any evidence. All I knew for sure (as I
was 5 at the time) was that there was a huge storm and swarms of us kids ate all the knickerbocker glories as the adults were mostly sick the ship hitting the dock and later getting measles and being holed up in the hospital - oh and that we crossed the equator on the 27th March 1965 because although I do not have the certificate that much I remembered. I didn't even know for sure the name of the boat but he confirms it was the Fairsea .
I am so grateful that he was able to confirm most of what I recall apart from the measles. I certainly wasn't the
only one there was an older boy involved with me pinching some biscuits in the hospital my brother got sick after me and was hidden rather than have him in hospital. I am hoping that someone somewhere can fill in more gaps. I haven't found either a manifest for the Fairsea or evidence of return to the
UK. I have a manifest for entry to Australia on the Fairstar 20th August 1964
but we didn't last and my parents had to repay the fare out. I would love if anyone who can help with information on either trip I now live in NZ we left the night that Michael Fish said there wasn't a hurricane coming...which is another whole story! Toni :)
message #: 162
Date: Wed Nov 10 2021 02:09:22
Name: Yoeri Van Langenhove Email: cloudcity@pandora.be
Country: Belgium n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Dear Sir I accidentally came across your website while searching for information about a particular boat type made in your country.
Namely the RAF seaplane tender ST200 series in the museum of the RAF you can admire a restored version (ST206) (done by Phil Clabburn).
I already contacted Phil but regarding the info I'm looking for (the
building plans) he couldn't help me any further. The intention is to make a large model first before making the boat full-sized (and working). I also went to look at several model making companies but the plans
they have are not the original plans and more intended to just serve as a static or an RC model.
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message #: 161
Date: Thu Jul 1 2021 01:10:53
Name: Graham Clarke
Email: Graham.clarke@inchmery.eu
Country: GB n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hello Michael - what a wonderful experience visiting your many fascinating pages. Thank you for all the effort you have put in to creating and maintaining it. Lymington born and bred I am now the Hon Historian of the
RLymYC and would much appreciate a chat with you about some of the items on your website. Our paths have crossed or been parallel in a number of ways which makes it all the more interesting. Most grateful if we could be in touch.
GJC.
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message #: 160
Date: Fri Apr 2 2021 04:09:39
Name: Su
Email: sumeadowcottage@icloud.com
Country: England n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
I would like to send you two photos of a baggage ticket please. It says Orient Line Pleasure Cruises and a crest on one side Orient Line to Australia and a drawing of a two mast ship on the other side. I would be interested if you might know the approximate age of it. Thank you Su
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message #: 159
Date: Sunday February 21 2021 21:17:45 GMT Name: Chris Glover
Email: fairlawn103@aol.com
Country: England n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I found your genealogy pages while researching my own family tree. My maiden name was Byard and I am also descended from the Byards of Strensham/Newent/Gloucestershire. My grandfather was born in Bristol and I have traced the family tree right back through the Cheshire records - not everything is yet confirmed but it seems about right so far
especially when taking into account the stories from my father and grandfather about tracing the line back to the Norman invasion in 1066! Many of the people you mention on your first page of the genealogy are also in my family tree. So it was really interesting to find your site - thank you!
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message #: 158
Date: Wednesday February 10 2021 17:22:57 GMT Name: Darren Gardiner
Email: darren@ddpartners.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
My father Robert (Bob) started at Hamilton MacDonald in the late 1940s and worked at P&O and its offshoots until he retired in the 1990s. Thanks for the photo of him in the Cricket Team. Thanks for the web-site which I stumbled upon - it is excellent!!
message #: 157
Date: Tuesday February 9 2021 15:05:17 GMT Name: Lee Desty
Email: lee.desty@yahoo.com
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hi Michael My visit to your wonderful web site was pure joy . I am Southampton born and bred and spent my youth watching so many passenger liners come and go to all corners of the world. My father worked as a painter and decorator for Harland and Wolff and always saw "the Mary" and "the Lizzie" as the best ships
he'd worked on. He specialised in gold leaf work. I was 11 when I watched the Queen Mary sail out of Southampton
for the last time. What a day and sight that was. The SS United States SS France ( later the Norway) Canberra the Shaw Savill liners to Australia and the Union Castle ships to South Africa tied up to 2 or 3 abreast. What years they
were. I'm retired after 41 years of working as a journalist 26 of those as a BBC TV News Editor and these days I spent my time with family walking a dog in the New Forest and songwriting. Best regards Lee Desty
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message #: 156
Date: Tuesday January 12 2021 12:17:41 GMT Name: Leif Bjorklund
Email: lgb1945@gmail.com
Country: Sweden n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Dear Sir do you have information how to find records from a Log Book? The ship is RHMS Britanis Voyage No 8 N/B August 1972 bound for Southampton from Sydney. We had to take another route before the Panama Canal to assist an injured sailor from a Fishingboat. I was on that night and saw part of the action would like to know how it all
went? Kind Regards Leif Bjorklund
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message #: 155
Date: Monday November 16 2020 10:31:46 GMT Name: Nivedita
Email:
Country: India n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Thank you Michael for this wonderful website full of historical treasures! I enjoyed going through your collection.
More importantly many thanks for your prompt and enthusiastic replies to my queries and reference book suggestions.
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message #: 154
Date: Wednesday August 5 2020 00:15:14 GMT Name: Edwin Heywood
Email: strawball933@gmail.com
Country: Adelaide South Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Fascinating website will visit again pleased to make your aquaintance Mike as you may have heard from Gordon I married a young lady from Long Wittenham in 1955 after we met during my National Service at Didcot in the R.A.O.C. Elizabeth Alice Wrench. lived at 21 Saxons Heath where I spent many happy days / nights between 1952 /1954 we Married in the local Church on 5th August 1955. Regards Edwin
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message #: 153
Date: Monday July 27 2020 19:12:37 GMT Name: John
Email:
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
What an amazing model of HMS victory! Keep going!
message #: 152
Date: Monday April 20 2020 19:05:50 GMT Name: Jim jim'ere Nelson
Email: nelsonpja@hotmail.co.uk
Country: France n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hi Ian my name is Jim....... I am a native of Jersey Channel Isles I was an active teenager and a member of
St Helier Yacht Club.. in the 1960's . I was one of about 6 lads that kept small boats in St Helier Harbour. had a
summer job at the then 'Rayson Marine' on the corner by the 'old' harbour. We would take our boats (dingy's ) out most days in the summer months and motor round as far as Green Island St Clements in an Easterly direction and St Brelades in a Westerly direction from St Helier. Through my yacht club membership 'crewed' several 'racing yachts ' and worked for various owners to prepare their motor cruisers before they departed on a 'jolly' to the Brittany Coast. I was Indentured to P&O SN Co in 1969 - Retired Chief Engineer - 2019. p.s this very slow 5seconds between every key
stroke ?
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message #: 151
Date: Saturday January 4 2020 04:43:14 GMT Name: Cas Holmes
Email:
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Thank you Michael for your advice on searching for my family history.
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message #: 150
Date: Saturday January 4 2020 00:40:36 GMT Name: Paul Wood
Email: wp446@aol.com
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Whilst tracking-down a specific voyage of the P&O Orient LIne vessel "Iberia" in the summer of 1964 I
came across your eclectic site. Very enjoyable! FYI I can provide an additional piece of data which complements the information that you list for the fleet voyages that year : I have a postcard (an Arthur Dixon picture of
the subject liner) received from an acquaintance who posted it to me at Colombo (then Ceylon) on 3rd August 1964. He had left Aden 5 days earlier and left a forwarding address in Sydney Australia (no arrival date given). There
seems to be a paucity of data for 1964 c.f. a full listing of the Iberia's journeys in 1966 (some other site that I found) and the routings in that year were perhaps similar although schedules don't coincide. Drop anchor.
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message #: 149
Date: Monday December 2 2019 03:05:34 GMT Name: Stephen Fisher
Email: stephenfisheruk@outlook.com
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Dear My Byard I’mcurrently writing a Haynes Manual for Motor Gun Boat MGB 81 the British PowerBoat MGB currently preserved at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. I’m putting thefinishing touches to it at the moment and am looking to complete a smallsection on other surviving examples of MGBs. Although your former home MTB
451 is not longer around I'm keen to demostrate how boats other than 81 became houseboats. Although I have modern
pictures of numerous other surviving boats I was quite struck by your second photo here ( https://www.yalumba.co.uk/Framesets/Houseboat.htm ) showing 451 soon after purchase and stripped of her armament. With your persmission I'd be keen to include this image
in the book - if you have a copy in higher resolution than the one online. I’mafraid that this book isn’t going to make me rich so I can’t offer any sort ofpayment but I’m might be able to send you a copy of it when it’s finished though. Kind regards Stephen Fisher
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message #: 148
Date: Tuesday August 6 2019 08:17:20 GMT Name: nick
Email:
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Just wanted to pass on my thanks to you for creating the website especially the pages about passenger ships from many years ago...and sharing it with the world. It's helped me greatly putting the pieces together of a
journey my parents took in 1960 from Australia to Europe.
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message #: 147
Date: Friday May 17 2019 21:32:09 GMT Name: Paul riches
Email:
Country: Uk n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Thank you your suggestion about the national archives in my search for the action report for MTB 447 I found it and have requested a copy . paul
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message #: 146
Date: Wednesday June 27 2018 09:02:28 GMT Name: Liz
Email: ebhumphrey@live.com.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I was thrilled to find this site and to read the information regarding the “Ellinis―. I left Sydney on
January 26 1973 and arrived in Southhampton on March 1 1973. The photos bought back many visual memories and the descriptions were very accurate. Thank you so much for this hard work. Liz
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message #: 145
Date: Wednesday June 20 2018 12:01:35 GMT Name: Vincent
Email: vincent.duchatelet@wanadoo.fr
Country: FRANCE n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hello Ian Really good web site ! You spoke about the Boat "Black Panther" have you pictures ? i'm the owner of a BPB Co Seaking from 1934 i search informations / pictures from pleasure craft build by the company at this time. kind regards Vincent.
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message #: 144
Date: Thursday April 5 2018 09:56:46 GMT Name: Nicholas Jenkins
Email:
Country: England n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Wonderful pictures and splendid information. Thank you for bringing these ships alive for us.
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message #: 143
Date: Thursday March 29 2018 11:21:40 GMT Name: Chris Lobban
Email: clobban@guam.net
Country: Guam (USA) n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Very interested to see your study of British Power Boat Co. My grandfather worked for them perhaps for the almost
the whole of their existence. He seems to have gone there soon after they opened in 1927. He would have been 65 in 1942 but I do not know if with the war on he continued working. My father apprenticed there 1934–1941 as a draughtsman and his sister worked there as a tracer during the war.
 I have a question for you. My gradfather's
address in the Probate Calendar was Sprifield Avenue Holbury (Fawley) and the OS map* shows that although this was very rural at the time Springfield Avenue and the short street connecting it to the A326 are lined by row houses. I am
wondering if these were company houses for the BPB Co.? Have you any information on this? * Email me a note and I can send you the map or its URL.
message #: 142
Date: Wednesday January 17 2018 22:44:34 GMT Name: Angela Snow
Email: angelasnow@sky.com
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Do you have any information regarding the purchase of a boat by Sir Herbert Smith in 1932. I believe that he was a
friend of T E Shaw (T E Lawrence) who designed the boat. Do you know the name of the boat and where it was used? Many thanks Angela
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message #: 141
Date: Saturday January 6 2018 09:18:31 GMT Name: Roger Pearson
Email: debrogerp@hotmail.com
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Greetings Michael from 'way downunder' I need your help in the construction of some models for the 1/144th scale Special Interest Group. The theme for this year's scale model show at Telford in November is 'things numbered 144'. To this end I am seeking info and photo's if possible of the 71' 6" MGB 144 and the ASRL HSL 144. My plan is to build these models in 1/144th scale. Thanking You Roger. Bendigo Australia.
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message #: 140
Date: Friday February 17 2017 15:54:35 GMT Name: Richard Bosly
Email: richard@bosly.plus.com
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
I very much enjoyed exploring your website. I am researching the British Power Boats "POWER" craft
a 23 ft launch used as a seaplane tender. Some time ago I saw a picture of one of these owned by Air Service Training Ltd. I want to make a model of this and am trying to find if there are any drawings of hull lines which can be obtained and details of the colours these craft were painted.
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message #: 139
Date: Thursday January 5 2017 04:26:46 GMT Name: Ross White
Email:
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
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message #: 138
Date: Tuesday June 28 2016 14:35:48 GMT Name: Paul Wilson
Email: thefivewilsons@sympatico.ca
Country: Canada n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi Mr Byard I omitted my email address previously if you do have anything to share. Thanks again! Paul Wilson
message #: 137
Date: Tuesday June 28 2016 14:27:35 GMT Name: Paul Wilson
Email:
Country: Canada n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Good morning Mr. Byard I have noted that you were a crew member of the SS Australis in the early 1970's. I
am hoping that you may recall a name of another crew member. His name was Dimitrios Mendes (spelling? ). He was about 20 in 1971 and was on the southbound voyage which left Southhampton on 16 Apr 1971. Looking forward to a reply if this name is familiar. I realize that the crew was numerous but we are looking for any information about him as he is
related to a good friend of ours and I have been tasked to try to find out about him. Thanks! Paul Wilson
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message #: 136
Date: Saturday October 31 2015 23:16:21 GMT Name: bob carey
Email: r.j.carey@bigpond.com
Country: australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hello Ian I worked for Chandris between 1963 to 1968 with a 2 year break for travel Ellinis v13n. I predated the 155 collins st address. My sister Jan also worked at the office.
I have fond memories of many of the staff. Bob Carey
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message #: 135
Date: Saturday October 10 2015 06:19:50 GMT Name: Caroline I McIlwaine
Email: mcilwaine@internode.on.net
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Very interesting! Would you know what ports the Faisea was likely to berth at during its May 1967 voyage to Australia? I was a 12 year old migrant and I only remember Port Said and Djibouti - the latter being a substitute for Aden at which trouble was brewing... Caroline McIlwaine
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message #: 134
Date: Sunday July 12 2015 11:35:21 GMT Name: John and Sandra Hobin
Email: john.hobin@ntlworld.com
Country: England n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
What a coincidence that our ham radio hobbies should bring us together. The Felixstowe station was called HMS Beehive and as I said in my e-mail to you my wifes late father Harvey (Yorky) Harrison was coxswain on MTB 499 during the WW2 hostilities. Unfortunatley the HQ better known locally as the Pier Hotel and latter the Little Ships has been flattened and the dock basin filled in to make way for further expansion to Felixstowe Docks. Best wishes from
John and Sandra Hobin
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message #: 133
Date: Wednesday March 25 2015 18:24:46 GMT Name: david garland
Email: garfish.garland1@gmail.com
Country: australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
very interesting site i came upon it as i have some p o luggage tags 1956 from the himilaya ive always sought to find out a little more about them. as i do collect all things old an interesting only for myself ive never sold
anything ive collected so i was lucky enough to find a few more items with the tags while picking though a road side collection about ten years ago u in the suburb of guilford perth western australia a suburb known for its direct links
to our local history i believe the particular items once belonged to a man by the name of alan brown capt alan brown im possibly led to believe he may have worked for t tohe new zealand shipping company but i believe he had strong links back to england an english maritine in particular so ill start by saying i have some ship jorney logs 1956 57 ss
jurabina cornwell middlesex rotorua rangatiki a1956 liverpoole diary which is prob my favoriate piece it has alll the old advertisements for companys in it some with established dates back to 17 an 1800s it also has ship logs in it im not sure what the vessals are i have several photos taken in england down on wharfs of groups of men all of high distintion possibly other captains or harbour masters i have dry store orders alchohol an tobacco order an price ship menus some other photos of interest an to round it off 2 invertations to buckingham palace for afternoon tea with the queen i think 1956 for mr an mrs brown if any of this is of interest to yourselfs please email me i can make avail
copys of any thing of interest or possibly even b pursuaded to let it go to a good home the fact i come accross it when i was destined for the rubbish dump has always made me happy hopefully it will b of interest u fishing captain dave garfish garland
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message #: 132
Date: Saturday March 14 2015 19:48:36 GMT Name: Andrew J.Quinn
Email: andrewquinn50@gmail.com
Country: United States n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
A very interesting site. I enjoyed.!!i
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message #: 131
Date: Tuesday November 18 2014 15:39:24 GMT Name: Mae
Email: maeric@hotmail.co.uk
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
By accident I came across your report of your voyage to Australia on ss New Australia in1953. That brought back memories as i was on that same v oyage. One very satisfactory event was handing in our ration books before we went aboard. Your comments about coronation day were special to me as that evening I met one of the engineer officers. We would have been married 60 years next week but sadly he died in May this year.He remained with Shaw Savill till he retired the last 14 years as chief engineer.
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message #: 130
Date: Friday October 31 2014 21:27:34 GMT Name: Dora
Email: dora.christidou@gmail.com
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Dear Michael first of all great website. Lots of useuful detailed information. Second... I'm in shock! I've
been searching for a long lost relative for ages and today I discovered he was on the "New Australia" in June
1953! Same as you and your family! He was picked up with another 20-30 seamen from Freemantle and they are listed on the manifest as "Distressed British Seamen on British orders of conveyance". Do you have any information at
all that might be relevant? I never thought I would find any photos of the ship especially of 1953 or THAT particular trip! Thank you!
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message #: 129
Date: Thursday October 23 2014 11:01:40 GMT Name: Frank
Email: Aniolkowskifrank@aim.com
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi Michael I have been given the wartime memoirs of one of the crew of MTB 451. One of the torpedo tube operators/gunners originally from Darlington and now deceased. I would like to include a photo of the boat for the account I am writing - do you have one i could use please? sadly although I have his medals diary and some other personal affects I don't know his name just his service number and rank. I am trying to trace his name rom his number but no success so far. An A/B with the service number CJX/546233 any ideas how I could find out. HMS Ganges association has not replied to my query. Regards Frank
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message #: 128
Date: Friday September 26 2014 09:59:32 GMT Name: LINDA ANNE WEBBER
Email: lamolossi@hotmail.co.uk
Country: United kingdom n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Dear Mr Byard I have enjoyed reading your information about the Webber family and such an impressive Website. As you will see I am also a decendant of George Webber/Eliza Mentern. I was thrilled to see a photo of George Webber with his mother and sisters. I would very much appreciate having a copy of that photo if it is
agreeable to you and permission to use information of Georges death at the Somme (for my family tree and directions to go and see his Panel) Briefly I will give you my details. George Webber / Eliza Mentern had quite number of
children two of whom were George Webber 1850 and Richard Webber 1852. I am decended from Richards line. I have no photographs from the Webber side save one my Grandfather Archibald who was Richards Son and father to my father Jack Webber. Thank you for your time Linda Anne Webber (now Molossi)
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message #: 127
Date: Wednesday May 7 2014 16:03:16 GMT Name: David Watkins
Email: davidcbwatkins@hotmail.co.uk
Country: United Kingdom n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi There! Interested to read your article on MTB476 which was commanded by my father Paul Watkins. The peaked cap figure standing on the bridge is indeed my father aged around 22yrs (now 92yrs!). I noticed that she was
bought by your parents after the war and wondered if she still existed as it would be great to see some photographs to show my dad. I have a few more photos of her and crew from that time. Look forward to hearing from
you. With best wishes David Watkins.
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message #: 126
Date: Sunday February 23 2014 09:44:53 GMT Name: Richard Hide
Email: REHide@hongkongescape.org
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hi I seemed to have missed any contact details!! I have quite a lot of photos of Britisg Power
Boat Power class MTB's 07-12 of the 2nd MTB flotilla that was based in Hong Kong 1938-41 I also have the ships
log from MTB07 on which my father was the chief engineer during the battle for Hong Kong and subsequent escape on Christmas Day 1941 with the Chinese military mission led by the legendary one legged Chinese Admiral Chan Chak.
I would be happy to supply a photo of 07 at high speed if I could find the contact details here. Buddy Hide Jr
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message #: 125
Date: Thursday January 30 2014 02:27:44 GMT Name: Fredrick McCulloch
Email: fred.mac@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I would be pleased to be able to contact you as I was employed by the E & A Line as an engineer and have quite a lot of information which I am willing to share with those who are interested. Regards Fred McCulloch.
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message #: 124
Date: Wednesday January 29 2014 03:35:39 GMT Name: George Holmes
Email: georgeholmes3@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
New Australia---- I was an apprentice on the Bridge during collision Torres Strait 1957. Picture of damage to bow is
first I have seen. I confirm our starb anchor ended up in the starb lifeboat on the France Stove. Currently Torres Strait Pilot for last 33 years !! kind Regards George Holmes
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message #: 123
Date: Saturday January 4 2014 19:03:05 GMT Name: Nick Messinger - Commander RD FNI RNR Retd Email: pandosnco@sky.com
Country: England n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
A really great webpage full of detailed information on those magnificent P&O passenger ships of yesteryear!
Greatly enjoyed my visit and many thanks for all your support of my modest endeavour at http://www.pandosnco.co.uk Best regards Yours aye NickM
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message #: 122
Date: Thursday December 19 2013 20:27:23 GMT Name: Richard Cooper
Email: rich5253@yahoo.co.uk
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Just Browsing the `net I used to fish from the old tollbridge in Lymington probably in the early 1960`s and there
were two MTB`s used as houseboats there from memory one was `kelana` and the other one perhaps belonged to your family I never knew what the Thames barge was called until I found your site. A friend and I aged about 10 rowed out to the
Swift and explored it I remember standing by the engine that was taller than me it was probably lived on at the time! something of the atmosphere must have got into my system as I lived on narrowboats for many years and now own a 10m dutch harbour tug which we live on in the summer in France. thanks for an informative website. Thanks
Richard Cooper
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message #: 121
Date: Sunday December 15 2013 17:04:49 GMT Name: John Lewis
Email: johndlewis456@aol.com
Country: uk n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Very interesting web site as I come from Lymington UK and my late uncle was a apprentice marine engineer at Slipway at the end of the war his name was Lesie Drodge (yes my mother was a Drodge for all my sins) he was there with Silas England and as far as I'm aware he helped him though his time at slipway. My uncle was taught by as he said the old boys that knew their trade and he even done the same to apprentices under his care at the Calshot power station never let them loose until he showed them how to do it safely.
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message #: 120
Date: Saturday April 6 2013 11:29:03 GMT Name: Brian Menzies
Email: menzies2@optusnet.com.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hello there I have arrived at your webpage while searching for information about the Queensland Steam Ship Co and Parbury Lamb & Co. My great grandfather William Jenkins Menzies was an employee of Parbury Lamb & Co in Brisbane in the 1880's. I know that he was returning to Brisbane from Sydney two weeks after the deal amalgamating Q.S.S.Co and A.S.N Co. was sorted out in December 1886. In his wife's obituary W.J.Menzies was referred to as the manager of shipping for Parbury Lamb & Co. I am interested in any information concerning Q.S.S. In the story you refer to Leresche coming to Brisbane to look into the agents. In August this
year I will be travelling to Scotland. We will be visiting the area of Glasgow where W.J. Menzies was born and then going on to Aberfeldy for the annual Menzies Clan get together at Menzies Castle. Thanks
Brian Menzies
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message #: 119
Date: Wednesday March 6 2013 10:41:03 GMT Name: Tom Turner
Email: turnipstwo@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I loved your site. I wonder if you can help me. My father also Thomas William Turner [b.1892 died 1982] left Sydney for Calcutta in October 1917 with his wife and two infants. I have a scratchy photo of them on sailing day. His first wife died in India of smallpox leaving my Dad to return in 1921 on the Janus [ British India Steam coy] Burns Philp Macdonaldetc and P&O seem to be the only starters at that time. Can you direct me to a site where I might confirm their departure date etc.I am the product of the second marriage and I was b. 1932.
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message #: 118
Date: Thursday January 31 2013 00:59:47 GMT Name: Beverley Holz
Email: bevholz@optusnet.com.au
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi Michael Just had a cuppa with your mum-in-law and she passed on your contact details and your kind offer
to help me with my family search. I did join Ancestry.UK last year and traced my family back to my Great Great Grand father Robert Holt. I only found his name on his son Fredricks (Fred's Info listed below) marriage certificate. I did
try to find him in the census records but no luck. so I do hope you can help me. I have listed below
Fredrick's info but if you need more on other family members please let me know. Robert Holt ( the mystery man) note: His name only was on Fredricks marriage certificate. Fredrick Holt (Son of Robert) 1820 - 1887 born
Liverpool Lancashire. Married: wife 1 Anne Margison or Margeson or Margerson 25th Dec 1839 st Helen's Church Gartang Lancashire. Anne died 31st Oct 1852 Married wife 2 : Ellen taylor 15th June 1853 at St Mary's Lancaster
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Fred & Anne had 3 children Joseph
1843 Elizabeth 1846 & Agnes
1849. Thank you again for helping Cheers
bev
message #: 117
Date: Monday January 14 2013 21:46:46 GMT Name: James White
Email:
Country: Canada n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
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message #: 116
Date: Monday January 14 2013 16:56:27 GMT Name: Chris Allen
Email: cfallen23@tiscali.co.uk
Country: England n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
I travelled back to England from Australia on the ELLINIS in May/June 1968. from Melbourne to Southampton. Does anyone have an itinery that shows the actual dates and places we called at en route whic I would like for historical purposes. Many thanks Chris Allen Orpington Kent
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message #: 115
Date: Saturday January 12 2013 13:30:26 GMT Name: Fiona Stephens
Email: fionastephens58@gmail.com
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi I'm just doing a bit of family history search here and found your page re. your journey to Australia on
the New Australia pictured with my uncle Munro Kerr taken by my grandmother. My mother is Sheila Munro's sister whom you must have met on that trip. That is just fantastic because after my grandfather's death followed not long after by
my mother's and then my grandmother's I have no idea what happened to the family photos. If you have any other photos of my mother's family I'd love to see them or any other info about that trip. Thanks Fiona
Stephens
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message #: 114
Date: Friday December 21 2012 11:11:36 GMT Name: Sidney Jones.
Email: scjones.karadaw@virgin.net
Country: United Kingdom n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
My first Ship afte leaving the NSTS Gravesend Kent in Sept.1952 was the P&O-RMS `Strathmore' out of Tilbury en-route to Sydney as a `Bell -Boy' in 1st. Class.
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message #: 113
Date: Friday December 7 2012 15:39:08 GMT Name: Peter Sharpe
Email: peter.sharpe@ntlworld.com
Country: England n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi I am very pleased that I found your site as I am trying to piece together all the ports I called
at whilst working on the Orsova and Oriana between 1965 and 1969. Your pictures on the ss Orsova page are great as I was on that voyage. I don't suppose I could have copies of the full size pictures could I please.
Thanks anyway. Peter
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message #: 112
Date: Wednesday November 14 2012 14:07:24 GMT Name: P E COWARD
Email: paulaliz@talktalk.net
Country: England n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hello I'm researching the life of the poodle we had when I was very young. A Google search for the poodle
led me to your on-line autobiography! Our poodle's pedigree name was Imp of Zizipompom. On-line Kennel Club records show that the breeder using the Zizipompom name was a Mrs Carpenter of The Linnette Lymington - a strange address until I consider that 'The Linnette' could have been your family's converted Motor Torpedo Boat. Do you recall a Mrs
Carpenter using 'Linnette' as her address in 1947 8 or 9? By coincidence my father a young pilot on flying boats
based at Poole and then Southampton also became very enthusiastic about buying one of the redundant MTVs to convert into a houseboat for us to live on. We never got our houseboat. My mother flatly refused to consider it because I was a very active toddler and my father was away on service for months on end. So we moved into a house in Parkstone and my
father bought my mother a poodle as a surprise. By 1950 BOAC ceased operating out of Southampton and we and the poodle were posted to Cairo. I was very interested to read about the houseboat life we might have had if my father had
followed his dream and I am left wondering whether our fathers knew each other all those years ago. Best wishes Paula Coward
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message #: 111
Date: Wednesday November 14 2012 03:24:12 GMT Name: Helen Ryan (nee Wheeler)
Email: hfryan@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
My mother father 2 brothers & sister boarded the "Bulolo" in Rabaul on 19th November 1959 bound for Australia.
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message #: 110
Date: Thursday October 25 2012 01:35:28 GMT Name: Graham Newton
Email: gn@audio-restoration.com
Country: Canada n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hello... I have some questions and information about the Byard family... we may be related through Edith who is my grandmother and mother of Issac Leslie Newton! Could you please respond to me.............................................................................................................................. Graham
Newton
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message #: 109
Date: Wednesday October 10 2012 17:34:44 GMT Name: Milton Peek
Email: mpeek2007@gmail.com
Country: United States n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Discovered your site while browsing internet for info on RMHS Queen Frederica which my wife and I were
fortunate enough to sail on in 1970. We departed from Cannes France for Majorca Bizerta (Tunisia) Malta Salerno Naples and back to Cannes. An unforgettable experience to be cherished for as long as we live. The Queen Frederica was a most delightful ship; possessing a charm which I doubt will ever be duplicated.
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message #: 108
Date: Sunday September 9 2012 20:50:06 GMT Name: Jennifer Skeaping
Email: skeapingj@hotmail.co.uk
Country: Australia/England n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi! I discovered your really interesting site while 'googling' a search on British shipping lines which operated on the Amazon in the early 1900's. I didn't find what I was looking for but was lucky to find you. My husband's
grandfather according to family 'legend' was a ship's captain on the Amazon probably between 1900 and 1911. I have some old photographs it's possible they identify the 'port' but no information on the line. The photos are not with me just
now - we are away from the UK until December. The family had connections to Liverpool but Captain Skeaping & his wife settled on the Isle of Man when they returned from the southern hemisphere. Anyway that is by the by. I enjoyed your site and congratulate you on putting together so much interesting information. kindest
regards Jennifer Skeaping
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message #: 107
Date: Tuesday June 5 2012 05:39:20 GMT Name: Gerry Niblock
Email: gniblock@virginbroadband.com.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Sailed on the SS New Australia as a migrant April/May 1954 to Australia arriving Sydney. Remember the ship well and the heat below decks. Sister aquired a very large sore on her back from the swiming pool and I ended up with a septic knee. Great ship though with lots and lots of childhood memories. Remember the smell of Bombay from miles out. We we four kids and mum were in a cabin with another woman and her child whilst poor old dad was with five other men in a cabin somewhere else. Those were the days?
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message #: 106
Date: Monday June 4 2012 20:31:33 GMT Name: Ian French
Email: ianfrench873@msn.com
Country: England n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Can I send you a photo which may be of interest. Hand over of 130 to RAF with officers and workers at Hythe I can name one or two of the people. Father on photo who also worked at Lymington Slipway Co after BPW closed.
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message #: 105
Date: Sunday May 20 2012 10:22:31 GMT Name: Marinda Hernandez
Email: marinda49@hotmail.com
Country: Western Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hi i travelled from U.K to Fremantle 1965 on th SS Ellinis i was 5 and remember lots of happy memories am glad i found this site a friend of mine has memorabelia of the Ellinis even table napkins and photos
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message #: 104
Date: Sunday May 6 2012 20:10:57 GMT Name: Chris Broom
Email:
Country: U.K n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I really enjoyed looking at the Amazon journey.I hope to enjoy this in Jan 2013.The pictures and information was great. Many thanks.
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message #: 103
Date: Wednesday May 2 2012 23:21:10 GMT Name: Jude Wilson
Email: jude.wilson@lincoln.ac.nz
Country: New Zealand n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Michael Happy to sign in - thanks for your help with sourcing the OVC membership card image. Cheers Jude
message #: 102
Date: Saturday April 21 2012 23:35:35 GMT Name: Lucylugs
Email:
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
From my mobile phone
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message #: 101
Date: Saturday April 21 2012 11:16:01 GMT Name: Theodore Byard
Email: byard@iinet.net.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Dear Michael I come across you site by accident through my interest in Heraldry. Surprised to your name Byard. I am descended from James and Anne Byard who migrated from Reading to Hobart in the 1850s. Thanks for your site. Theodore Byard
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message #: 100
Date: Sunday April 15 2012 18:15:07 GMT Name: Stanley Hale
Email: wstowuk@gmail.com
Country: USA n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Greetings I have found your site whilst searching for data on SSA m.v. Athenic. I sailed on her as a passenger in 1952 to Panama. I have many memories of various ships but not many photos. Keep up the good work. Cheers Stanley
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message #: 99
Date: Sunday April 1 2012 18:40:00 GMT Name: david kyle
Email: dave222kyle@live.co.uk
Country: u.k. n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
hi eveybody i sail to aussie early june and arrived july 4th in perth w.a.on castle felice i wonder if there are some people who remember the trip. i returned to u.k. sept. 1972. big mistake! i have been back there 2 times hoping to visit again this year brill. website by the way. all the best to all. dave.
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message #: 98
Date: Saturday March 24 2012 20:13:24 GMT Name: Susan Gledhill
Email: s.gledhill@alumni.qut.edu.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
My husband travelled to Australia on the Stratheden in 196i one of the many children who were brought to Australia by Dr Barnardo's. One of his two brothers who remained in England finally located him after 38 years and the three of them now remain in close contact. I would love to obtain memoribilia from the Stratheden for him.
message #: 97
Date: Sunday March 11 2012 07:20:04 GMT Name: Helen June Berman
Email: helenjune1941@hotmail.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Interesting page. I sailed from Tilbury on the Strathnaver on december the 7th 1961 at the very young age of 20 leaving behind all my family and friends I believe now a very brave thing to do. At the time I wanted an adventure and the $10 passage scheme encouraging migration to Australia seemed like the only way for a working class girl like me. I arrived in Australia in January 10th 1962 and have lived in Melbourne ever since however I still get nostalgic for Blighty even after 50 years in Oz. I would love to know what happened to friends I met on the Strathnaver all those years ago in particular a steward called Allen Stewart (I think) he came from London I believe. I am now retired. I have to thank Australia for giving me the opportunity to educate myself to University level something in the early sixties I was unable to do in Britain. I worked for many years as a teacher and travelled extensively to Britain and other parts of
the world but my fondest memories and strongest memories are of my very first trip out of England in fact out of
Prescot (a small market town near Liverpool) on a wonderful ship called the Strathnaver. I have some postcard photos of the ship printed in 1961 if anyone is interested. Regards June Berman
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message #: 96
Date: Monday February 6 2012 02:50:36 GMT Name: Leslie Nicholas
Email: nicko21244@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hi it was verry nostalgic viewing your story on the trip from England to Australia. My family did the trip in February 1952 in fact it was the day the King died when we got on the boat. I can relate to a lot that you talked as we were on
D deck. My 6yr old brother my Dad and I at 8 years of age in one cabin and my Mother and 6 Month old sister in another. during the hot times we slept on deck as you said. A number of us boys got around together particularly at morning and afternoon tea times as we used to go to one mess and then to another at the next sitting.Keep up your good work nice to bring back memories. Regards Les
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message #: 95
Date: Monday December 12 2011 01:28:25 GMT Name: Philip Mallon
Email: philip.mallon@iinet.net.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Michael enjoyed reading about your journey to Australia. I made the same voyage in 1956 also on the New Australia and I was 6 years old at the time. Your photos and stories brought back memories for me. I remember the fancy dress party - I was captain. I have just retired and started a new interest in ships. Putting on a seminar on Titanic for Engineers Australia next year. Thanks Phil - Sydney Australia
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message #: 94
Date: Saturday November 19 2011 05:22:39 GMT Name: Peter Favelle
Email: pandjfavelle@shaw.ca
Country: Canada n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hello I found your website while looking for information on the SS NEVASA (1956) I am after any info avail on the ship particularly aerial photos and most importantly a Lines/Body Plan of the ship. I am hoping to build a model of the ship. I sailed on Nevasa in 1956. Can you help?
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message #: 93
Date: Sunday October 9 2011 17:13:00 GMT Name: Pamela Newton-Lamothe
Email: pclamothe@msn.com
Country: Canada n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
I am Fred Newton's (Ron) daughter. Was talking to my neice Jody Newton Graham and she told me about you my half-uncle. You have lead an extremely active and exciting life and I look forward to hearing more about my grandmother Edith
Webber Stuart Newton.
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message #: 92
Date: Wednesday October 5 2011 00:46:06 GMT Name: james goudie
Email: hotjimmy@live.co.uk
Country: scotland n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
just surfing and still trying to track down the ss strathedan which i left tilbury on the 12 june 1962 for ozz on the ten quid deal had a great time as i was 24 and single one trip i will never forget whish i could catch up whith my old
pals again been trying for years hope you can help me to track the strathedan and thank you you are closest i have got to it yet thanks again jimmy
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message #: 91
Date: Thursday September 22 2011 10:18:47 GMT Name: Andrew M�n Hughes
Email: crystal_bay_2003@hotmail.com
Country: United Kingdom n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hello Michael Just surfed over to your site whilst looking for Sitmar related material - specifically "Fairsea" and "Fairsky". My interest is through writing a second book about The Bee Gees who went to Australia on the assisted passage schenme in 1958 and returned to the UK in 1967. You have a great deal of interesting photographs and memorabilia which would serve to enhance the relevant sections in the book which is pretty much complete in terms of text - close to 150 000 words - but we're just adding to the image lirary prior to going to the design stage at the moment. If you feel you would be willing to assist I would be delighted to hear from you. Best regards Andrew
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message #: 90
Date: Saturday August 27 2011 11:41:32 GMT Name: JK
Email: jk.nc@wanadoo.fr
Country: France n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Just an unimportant addition to the articles about the DULCIBELLA. It seems to me that it might be of interest to note that this was the first name of Erskine's grandmother: Dulcibella Chester m. Rev Charles Childers of Nice France Holy Trinity Anglican Chuch where he resided for over 40 years. J Kiraly English-American Library Nice
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message #: 89
Date: Tuesday August 23 2011 18:36:13 GMT Name: Keith Barnett
Email: k.barnett50@ntlworld.com
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Modeller. Main Interest MTB/ASRL/Fast Assault etc. Marvelous collection of info thanks for your work and effort. Cheers Keith
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message #: 88
Date: Monday August 15 2011 14:25:09 GMT Name: Maurie Rose
Email: M.L.Rose@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Very interesting site. The photo of Will Thatcher labelled as a Chief Petty Officer is actually a Petty Officer uniform and rank. A Chief has his rank designation on the upper lapel at the level of the tie knot. There is nothing on the
sleeves. Example here. http://www.thebibleblog.co/bp1/2011/05/04/last-wwi-veteran-dies-at-age-110/ Regards Maurie Rose ex-RAN
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message #: 87
Date: Monday August 15 2011 12:07:19 GMT Name: Peter Hancock
Email: peterhancock2@sky.com
Country: United Kingdom n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hi DO not no if you would be intersted but i have a Souvenir from the P&O S.S "MOLDAVIA " CRUISE 4 ThE Chairman and the Directors ask the Ladies to accept this small preasent as souvenir of their holiday 28-5-35 ther is a old picture of
Ceylon written underneath P&O London---Ceylon All in Tours from £131.10s the gift is a small hand mirror
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message #: 86
Date: Monday July 11 2011 18:53:24 GMT Name: Christy Walsh
Email: bt126ar@hotmail.com
Country: Ireland n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Thank you for sharing the interesting page and contents on Erskine Childers and the fate of the 'Dulcibella'. Sad end for both man and boat alike.
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message #: 85
Date: Tuesday June 21 2011 14:05:41 GMT Name: bharat patel
Email: bpatel_5@hotmail.co.uk
Country: u.k. n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
My dad traveled from Bombay to Mombasa in end of november 1928 i am looking for a name of the ship..... anybody can help
me?
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message #: 84
Date: Tuesday May 17 2011 19:23:09 GMT Name: Gwen Gwilliams
Email:
Country: England n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
A very interesting site I looked it up after dreaming about a MTB 451 while recovering from illness! I was amazed to fine one had actually been built but sorry to hear that she no longer floats. Would have liked to have seen her at her best.
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message #: 83
Date: Friday May 13 2011 20:36:08 GMT Name: David Baker
Email: Davidbaker_wsm@hotmail.com
Country: England n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Many thanks for the memories. I guess we were fortunate in just happening to be around at the right time. 1960 s Ex
Orcades P & O Australia Spring Street Sydney Sydney Radio VIS/VIX La Perouse Sydney. Once again mt thanks - David Baker
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message #: 82
Date: Tuesday May 10 2011 23:50:02 GMT Name: Christopher Vlassopulos
Email: chris@daedalusdevelopment.com
Country: USA n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Thank you for the information posted about my family. Nicos Vlassopulos is my godfather. He still keeps a summer home on Ithaka as does John. They both live in Athens now. The Ithaca has a special meaning for me as I sailed on it as a
boy and then when I moved to Miami sound that it had relocated here and was called the Dolphin. My fiancee did a bon voyage party on it for her mother and sister in the late 70's early 80's before we had even met! We had many stories to share about that ship. This is a very nice site. Keep up the good work. Christopher
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message #: 81
Date: Tuesday April 26 2011 05:38:00 GMT Name: James Shenton
Email: shentonj@gmail.co,
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
I was on the Strathnavers last voyage of 10 Pound Pom from Tilbury Dec 1961 through the sueze Canal stopping at Aden Bombay (there was a riot on in columbo ) Freemantle Melboune disenbarck Sydney 20 Jan 1962 from memory though the excuse given was a blown boiler looking for a passenger list BEST regards Jim SHENTON
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message #: 80
Date: Monday April 25 2011 12:05:04 GMT Name: Hazel Culbert
Email: peach43@optusnet.com.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Fantastic website.
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message #: 79
Date: Saturday April 23 2011 03:14:02 GMT Name: Darrel Newton
Email: dnewton@agileeng.com
Country: USA n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi Michael I am researching my family tree and you may be a distant cousin. Edith Ethel Newton (nee Byrd) is my great grandmother. (At least it was spelled byrd in the marriage record of Richard Newton and Rose Johnson.) My Edith's husband's name is Isaac Newton. They had several children including Prudence and Fred. She was born in Cardiff Glamorgan Wales in about 1887 immigrated to Canada in 1923. (I have records.) But I can't find any more information about her. Could she be your Edith?
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message #: 78
Date: Saturday April 16 2011 21:59:08 GMT Name: Sandra White
Email: sandra_white45@hotmail.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Dear Michael your website brought back many memories. I travelled in January to February 1953 with my mother and sister on S.S. New Australia at the age of 7. My father having arrived in Australia some months before. My sister was 3 months old and we fortunate to be located on A deck very comfortable. On that trip too husbands and wives were separated with boys aged 11 and over sharing cabins with their fathers. There were many protests but nothing was changed. My memories were happy ones and the day we docked in Melbourne is still fresh in my memory as I had not seen my father for almost 8 months it was a delightful renunion. I have a menu of the last dinner on board and off course the postcard. Thanks for sharing your experiences. Cheers Sandra White (nee Williamson)
message #: 77
Date: Thursday April 7 2011 05:55:49 GMT Name: Michael McDonnell
Email: mike_and_rona@internode.on.net
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I was interested to come across your site as I was trying to scratch my aging memory to write about my migration as a Ten Pound Pom in 1960 for my children and grandchildren. I did keep some memoentos of the voyage on the Strathnaver such as the passenger list and a gala menu. What I did not keep which I now regret was the ticket which was issued to migrants to board the Styranaver. I wonder if you are aware of any photographs or pictures which illustrate these as I would like to include them in in my very personal history book for my family Kind Regards Michael McDonnell Adelaide Australia
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message #: 76
Date: Tuesday April 5 2011 11:42:01 GMT Name: Joe sammon
Email: Joe.sammon1@sky.com
Country: Engalnd n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I served on the Stratheden from 2/1/1958 to 28/1/1959. If you were there get in touch. Joe
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message #: 75
Date: Sunday February 27 2011 06:23:12 GMT Name: Thomas Wieck
Email: Th.Wieck@t-online.de
Country: Germany n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Dear Ian first of all greetings and my good wishes for 2011. It´s never too late. I haven´t accessed your page for some time but now that my daughters are quite grown-up 27 and almost 30 they do take a more spontaneous interest in how things were for us and I´ve posted links liberally. Best wishes Thomas
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message #: 74
Date: Monday February 14 2011 02:22:52 GMT Name: Eric
Email:
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Thanks for a wonderfull site.As a kid growing up in Melbourne in the 1950s I often went to Station Pier to look at the liners and your pics bring back some fond memories of those more innocent days.
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message #: 73
Date: Tuesday January 4 2011 09:14:16 GMT Name: Jamie Roberts
Email: james@optushome.com.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Ian Saw you note on Robert Timms Website. My father Barrie Roberts was on MGB 447 - however he left me loads of photos of MTBs/MGBs from during the war and I have found a couple of images of 451. They are quite small sadly but happy to scan if you'd like them. Jamie.
message #: 72
Date: Thursday December 23 2010 03:20:42 GMT Name: Sarah Jameson
Email: jamesonsarah@yahoo.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Came as a child Ten Pound Pom in 1957 on SS Himalaya. Celebrated 50 years by going to Sydney with siblings. Thankyou for excellent images. Using the image 'Bow of Himalaya at Station Pier 1959' in my PhD thesis as a reference to my immigrant past. Many thanks.
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message #: 71
Date: Wednesday December 22 2010 02:22:22 GMT Name: Tom Pilkington
Email:
Country: USA n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Does anyone know the fate of HMS Montclair submarine depot ship that was stationed at Rothesay Scotland in 1947? I believe she had been a Canadian ship before the RN acquired her. I have a vivid memory of standing in the bow of the ship and staring at a line of bubbles that was streaking towards me. Fortunately it was a dummy torpedo that was fired by one of our subs and the Monclair was the target in a "find the enemy" exercise. Ironically I was assigned to the torpedo department of the ship and the torpedo might have been one that I lowered down to the sub!
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message #: 70
Date: Thursday December 2 2010 22:48:35 GMT Name: Jeff Allen
Email: jefftallen@tiscali.co.uk
Country: England n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
My Father certificate of service shows him serving on MGB 16 from HMS Attack in 1943. He served in the Med after this until the war ended and then stayed on MTB boats until Oct 1947.
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message #: 69
Date: Thursday November 18 2010 22:36:53 GMT Name: G. Burgoyne
Email:
Country: United Kingdom n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Message Number: #67 - Wednesday October 13 2010 19:53:56 BST - IP = 85.210.73.239 Name: G. Burgoyne Country: United Kingdom n/a: n/a: n/a: Comments: Sir This is a very informative site.Has it been made into a book that I can purchase?
I live on an old MGB with my husband who purchased it in the 60's and carried on converting it into a home.He does not know the number but it was built by the British Power Boat Co. Hythe 1940-41.Possible numbers 6-21 46 50-67.Hard chine double diagonal mahogany L.O.70ft beam 20ft mean draught4ft.Part of the gun emplacement (by the front door!)had to be removed because it rusted badly.It has some repaired bullet (?) holes on the port side.
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message #: 68
Date: Thursday November 18 2010 11:38:18 BST Name: Michael Warner
Email: Warner34@tpg.com.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
My family arrived in Australia on 3rd January 1961 on the Fairsky. So next year we'll celebrate 50 years since we arrived. It was great to find this site and see your pictures of the ship and have a little sense of connection with someone who knew of the Fairsky. Your site is nicely presented. Thanks. Michael.
message #: 67
Date: Wednesday October 13 2010 19:53:56 BST Name: G. Burgoyne
Email: himirabile@yahoo.co.uk
Country: United Kingdom n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Sir This is a very informative site.Has it been made into a book that I can purchase? I live on an old MGB with my husband who purchased it in the 60's and carried on converting it into a home.He does not know the number but it was built by the British Power Boat Co. Hythe 1940-41.Possible numbers 6-21 46 50-67.Hard chine double diagonal mahogany L.O.70ft beam 20ft mean draught4ft.Part of the gun emplacement (by the front door!)had to be removed because it rusted badly.It has some repaired bullet (?) holes on the port side.
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message #: 66
Date: Friday September 24 2010 08:16:14 BST Name: René Visser
Email: rene.visser@home.nl
Country: Netherlands n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I was looking for a picture of th HRMS Ellinis and what did I vind. The picture of the Ellinis sailing away under the harbour bridge is the same boat and cruise I was on in 78 when we went back to Holland after a stay of 4 years. Thanks a lot René Visser Holland
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message #: 65
Date: Sunday September 19 2010 04:02:45 BST Name: alan morandi
Email: alanboy2222@libero.it
Country: AU n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
dear sir i'm looking for a crew's member of the ship fairsea sitmar Departed from Southampton UK 31st May 1968 Arrived in Fremantle Western Australia 29th June 1968 i contacted the p&o and they said that don't have recors so old is there another way or possibility to find the crew list? regards Alan
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message #: 64
Date: Saturday September 4 2010 02:54:30 BST Name: Trevor Cowland
Email: tjcowland@southernphone.com.au
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Ex Shaw Savill Marine Engineer On ships (Between 1960 -1965)Iberic Megantic and Zealandic.Great Company and work mates would like to hear from any that worked on the above ships at the same period.
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message #: 63
Date: Sunday August 29 2010 18:46:52 BST Name: Peter Ritchie
Email: peter.ritchie4@btinternet.com
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Thanks for this website and for keeping the memory of the old P&O going. My father Mr G.L.Ritchie was the Chief Engineer of the "Strathmore" during the Second World War having been the Chief Engineer of the "Kaisar-I-Hind and "Carthage" before that. He was invalided out towards the end of 1945 and died at the end of 1952. I was a mere seven years old when he died. He had been with the P&O for his whole career and had served with them during the First World War. His name appears in "Business in Great waters" Appendix Two under C.B.E. Once again thanks for the website
message #: 62
Date: Sunday August 22 2010 17:58:09 BST Name: Linda
Email: hoppy4@sasktel.net
Country: Canada n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
I am refinishing an old piece of furniture when a postcard fell out of one of the cracks. It is a family photo with a lifesaving floating device that has the words 'Montrose Canadian Pacific' written around it. Is there any way you can date such a photograph. There is no date on it. There are 8 people in the photo and it has been made into a postcard. Any ideas on how I can find out who these people are or what year this was? Thank you.
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message #: 61
Date: Friday August 13 2010 07:38:03 BST Name: John Hackett
Email: jillhackett1@ntlworld.com
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Dear Sir I am the brother-in-law of Arturo Mischiati who died of a heart attack of Port Moresby in October 1976. He was the captain of a Sitmar Line vessel. I am endeavouring to trace his next of kin in Italy on behalf of his daughter
Carolina who was born and lived in the UK and is now in her forties. Sadly he is buried in Bromley Kent a long way from home. Any guidance you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Yours Sincerely John Hackett (020 8464 8221)
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message #: 60
Date: Friday July 30 2010 13:25:29 BST Name: Tony Cannatelli
Email:
Country: Italy n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hi all wondering if anyone out there came to Australia (Station Pier) on Melbourne Cup day 1962 on the Flavia. I have never seen any photos or stories from the voyage. We took 31 days to get here. Stopped off in India then Freemantle and finally Port Melbourne. Got fed heaps of Cadbury chocolate and then went to Dandenong where dad worked in a bakery in Adelaide Street. 6 Mths later we ended up back in Port Melbourne in Bay Street where dad worked in another bakery (Bay Bakery) and mum worked in a deli. What i remember of the trip were the games played on the deck by all the few whales spotted cruising along the ship looking out from the porthole on a rough day and going under the water and then above the water and tossing money overboard to young kids as we went through the Suez Canal.I also remember dad giving us Australian coins before we descended and i grabbed the biggest coin (A Penny). Anyway must go for now but love to read up soon that somebody out there travelled on the same boat. Regards Tony
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message #: 59
Date: Wednesday July 14 2010 00:17:28 BST Name: marcelo esperon
Email: esperon_marzorati@yahoo.com.ar
Country: argentina n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
dear sir By chance just looking at google for pics of a Hilman MINX for a friend of mine who collect scale models like me I´ve got your site.....very nice.... my compliments for your cars` pics...as a Car fan as I am...i just love your classic cars as the Hilmans. I studied in England for 1 an 1/2 year (1994-1995)and I was delighted to see so manY
classic cars on the road and how you the English cherished your old lovely classic cars pitY English car industry is gone! gretting marcelo from ARGENTINA
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message #: 58
Date: Friday July 2 2010 13:12:56 BST Name: Sarah Baylis
Email: sarahbaylis2000@hotmail.com
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I sailed to Australia from England on the Britanis leaving 4th July 1971 and we did not go via Suez as stated on your webpage but round the Cape. In fact it was closed between 1967 to 1975.
message #: 57
Date: Monday June 21 2010 18:18:44 BST Name: Keith Dean
Email: keithdean@postmail.ch
Country: Switzerland n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hello. I sailed on the Ellinis from Melbourne to Southhampton in 1973. It was part of the " youth fares" program by Chandris. Costed me 300 Dollars! Great trip and fond memories.
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message #: 56
Date: Friday June 11 2010 01:31:03 GB Name: Bernie Hutchins
Email: bernie.hutchins@hotmail.com
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Michael Love reading your history of P & O Orient Lines in Melbourne in particular. My father Harry Hutchins was the long serving Accountant with the Orient Lines then P & O after WW2 till retiring in the 70's. He's still fighting fit
and playing golf and bowls still in his 90's. He still recalls all the going's on and staff movements within the Australian operation and I feel he would be a great source of information to you if approached. Mr Bernie Hutchins [youngest of Harry and Molly's two sons]
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message #: 55
Date: Thursday June 10 2010 05:23:17 GB Name: John H. Smith
Email: humphreyj@gmail.com.
Country: Australia. n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Thanks for a great site. I was a ship radio officer from 1951 to 1958 and I remember many of the ships that you feature. I subsequently became a ship radio surveyor in Melbourne and later a radar surveyor. Some of my happiest memories oare of standing watch with the second and third mates and mastering navigation at a basic level. I still like ship watching as the ships pass through Port Phillip Heads every time I visit Point Lonsdale. Regards.
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message #: 54
Date: Tuesday April 27 2010 17:17:28 GB Name: Jack Reeder
Email: reeder1935@gmail.com
Country: USA n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I find your site very interesting brings back a lot of memeries. Regards EX. RAF Air Sea Rescue 1953 - 1958 Calshot-Germany-Lyme Regis
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message #: 53
Date: Tuesday April 20 2010 03:36:24 GB Name: Henry Slapinski
Email: tallshipsvf11@hotmail.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hello Ian my parents came to Australia on the 'Castel Bianco' arriving Melbourne 20 March 1949 and then my grandmother aunt and brother arrived 1 May 1951 on the 'Toscana' also arriving in Melbourne. I have the passenger lists for both
ships however am unable to track down the Officer/Crew lists for both ships. I wondered if you could help in any way whether it be a website or some publication. Thank you for your time. PS: What a great site - keep up the great work.
message #: 52
Date: Friday April 16 2010 14:26:25 GB Name: Peter Nichols
Email: TERRI205PETER@JUNO.COM
Country: USA n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
I arrived late on the cruise vessel scene in early 1985 and stevedored all of Premier's vessels until 1995 worked Dolphin/Chandris C.L. vessels until 1998 Cape Canaveral vessel embark to ship seizure in 2000 and R.C.I. transportation @ Port Canaveral Fl. until 2006. Question: I believe there is a certain level of skulduggery in some of the
questionable Canaveral cruise ventures and it goes all the way to the port authority so any opinion? These situations w/ older pax vessels have cropped up again and to me is suspect as what I perceive to be fiscal grabs w/ the port authority & vendors suffering monetary loss.
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message #: 51
Date: Friday February 26 2010 21:13:04 GB Name: Emily
Email: ejsmith@nc.rr.com
Country: U.S.A. n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hello! I am thrilled to find your site. My family returned to the U.S. (after 7 years in NZ) on the Australis in June
of 1971. We were a family of 7 at the time mum and dad and 5 young children under the age of 10. I remember we were in the lowest deck in the cabin furthest to the back... good that way so we wouldn't disturb anyone with our noise.
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message #: 50
Date: Wednesday February 17 2010 12:11:36 GB Name: Robert Wright
Email: bobbeewright@live.com
Country: Germany n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Could you please contact me. I have photos of MOLDAVIA. My Grandfather sailed 1924 - 1930. Free!! Robert
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message #: 49
Date: Tuesday February 16 2010 09:08:01 GB Name: sheila turner
Email: sheilacraig@igpond.com
Country: australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I came to Australia in 1951 on S.S.New Australia with my mother and sister. Remember sleeping on deck as so hot in cabins. Also going ashore in Aden and the baskets with goods to sell hoisted up from small boats alongside the ship. Have photos in fancy dress taken on ship.
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message #: 48
Date: Sunday February 7 2010 16:06:06 GB Name: penelope lennon
Email: penelope_m@bigpond.com
Country: australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
mum dad myself and 5 brothers came to australia on the castel felice 1963 have photos taken on board ship. would like contact from others who came on same voyage.
message #: 47
Date: Thursday February 4 2010 10:27:48 GB Name: bob garde
Email:
Country: australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
hi Ian; my family and i came to Oz on the fairstar in june 1967 we were 10 pound poms. the voyage was fantastic. my family were my wife .Norma myself-Bob and our two sons Ian & Michael.We settled in Whyalla S Australia.but we are now in Victoria GREAT SITE THANK YOU
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message #: 46
Date: Wednesday February 3 2010 17:53:43 GB Name: David Hedges
Email: david@hedgesphoto.com
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
As a former PrGStwd - West Kent (now a PPrGSuptWks) and an ex-employee of N & J Vlassopoulos I just had to say hello. Best wishes
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message #: 45
Date: Monday February 1 2010 20:48:07 GB Name: ross craig
Email:
Country: scotland n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
hi great looking site. my father who has just passed away worked for p&o in the 50s on about 5 liners as an
electrition. he was also on various cargo boats including the ss surat. anyone remember him his name was thomas craig ta.
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message #: 44
Date: Sunday January 31 2010 20:49:42 GB Name: Chris Kennard
Email: chris@kennardhomes.co.uk
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi Michael interesting stuff especially the story of your houseboat Linnette. I am currently trying to find some photos for my cousin who also has a houseboat converted from MTB 486 the last of the Canadian 29th Flotilla. Most of the rest of the flotilla perished in the disaster at Ostend harbour on 14th Feb 1945. He knows nothing about this so I'm just piecing the history of the boat together for him as a surprise. I've got some pics if you fancy seeing some of what she looks like now. Best regards Chris Kennard Romsey near Southampton UK
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message #: 43
Date: Sunday January 31 2010 12:13:25 GB Name: Robert Wright
Email: bobbeewright@live.com
Country: Germany n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Dear Millennium Man Hi From Germany. I have a lot of photographs of the 'MOLDAVIA ' as my Grandfather served on the ship from 1924 - 1930. do you want them? Free of course!! Regards Robert
message #: 42
Date: Sunday January 24 2010 06:27:30 GB Name: Kathy
Email: terrigal2009@gmail.com
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi I'm researching my family and am currently looking at records for my great grandfather. His name was William Alexander Nicol b. Paisley Scotland in 1858. He came to Australia (Sydney)on the Norval in 1880 - trade shown as fitter. In March 1884 he was in Brisbane where he married his wife Margaret Love who arrived on the Shannon from
Glasgow. By 1886 he was in Kiama ( don't know why) and back in Sydney a couple of years later. He died in 1914 and his obituary reads ". Nicol superintendent engineer of- the Port Jackson aud Manly S.S. Company Limited The late Mr.
Nicol had boen in the employ of the Port Jackson Company for 12 years. During the last five years ho held the position of super-intendent engineer and as such supervised the building of tho company's new steamers. Prior to joining this company Mr. Nicol was for many years connected with the Aus- tralian United Steam Navigation Company Limited." End quote. My question after all that is do you have any information about the two companies he
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message #: 41
Date: Monday January 4 2010 22:18:44 GB Name: Howard Evans
Email: val.clements47@btinternet.com
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hello I was looking to find info on the Chandris Line ship Ellinis which my family sailed back to the UK on at the end
of 1965. We left a lovely hot Sydney to arrive back in Southampton mid-winter and my poor parents were so distraught at having made the biggest mistake of their lives they flipped a coin and within 6 months we were on our way back to the warmth of South Africa. Nice to see the stuff you have on the Ellinis - I and my siblings had the greatest adventure on
that trip back from sydney via Panama and Curacao (Not New York) but crossing the North Atlantic in December was no fun in 1965. Thanks Howard Evans Stevenage UK
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message #: 40
Date: Friday January 1 2010 13:34:24 GB Name: Patrick Holland
Email: lambeth@tadaust.org.au
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
The web site address for MTB 494 has been changed I will send the new address to you if you could please contact me by email. I 've tried to send you the URL in this box but I can 't. The last survivor from MTB 494 Bert. Markham MiD died
on the 3rd. Dec 2009. He was age 92.
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message #: 39
Date: Monday November 9 2009 20:42:07 GB Name: Peter Ridg;ey
Email: 56petec@tiscali.co.uk
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
How wonderful to see pictures of the 'Grand Old Ladies' of the P&O fleet after so many years! My late father(Henry Ridgley)worked in the Mercantile Marine Office at Tilbury Docks from the mid 1950's until his retirement in 1979. Most of the liners were regular visitors to Tilbury during that period and we as children or adolescents were often allowed on board whilst Dad was carrying out his business of supervising the paying off of the crew and stamping their discharge books. I have some wonderful memories of these great ships it was a big thrill for a youngster to be able to visit the bridge and the engine room and to be made a fuss of by the officers and crew. My favourites were the Arcadia Orion and Himalaya. Lunch always seemed to be rather 'special' on these three! Excellent website Michael thanks for reminding me about my Dad and the days of my youth.
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message #: 38
Date: Tuesday October 27 2009 13:49:10 GB Name: Ryan Downes
Email: Last_action_hobbit@yahoo.co.uk
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi there I've just purchased British Power Boat Sea Plane Tender 445 which has been converted into a houseboat named Teredo (ironically. ). I wondered if you'd be interested in some links pictures etc and perhaps being able to tell me
a bit more about my new home. Great site otherwise! yours Rzan
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message #: 37
Date: Thursday October 15 2009 08:43:50 GB Name: Frank Pullan
Email: fpullan@hotmail.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hi All I Migrated to Aust in June 1966 aboard M.V Fairsea I travelled with my parents and brothers and sister as a fourteen year old boy on crutches with plaster from my left foot upto the top of my thigh. would like to get hold of a passenger list if anyone can help. I was pleased to find this Great Site whilst looking up Fairsea. Cheers Frank
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message #: 36
Date: Tuesday October 13 2009 04:37:10 GB Name: Mike Swerdlin
Email: mikeswerdlin@hotmail.com
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
To Michael Byard Stumbled upon your website after looking for "New Australia" following a radio segment on immigrant ships. Brought back a lot of memories when as a boy of 8 we came via the same route in Jan-Feb 1955 on the same boat on the same D deck; dad & me with either 4 or 6 (not sure) others in one cabin and mum sister with 4 others in another
cabin. My fancy dress for the ship's competition was "D deck" with peg on nose etc. I must dig out my 87 year old mum's pics from the voyage during which I mainly played ping pong having to buy the balls for a penny each since so many flew overboard. Thanks for the memories. Mike Swerdlin Sydney
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message #: 35
Date: Wednesday September 2 2009 14:28:12 GB Name: Sandra Ryan
Email: ryanslee@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi Michael I am trying to look for names of crews members on M.V. Fairsea 1968 journeying from Southhampton UK to Fremantle Western Australia. Are you able to help or give me direction? Look forward to hearing from you many thanks.
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message #: 34
Date: Monday August 17 2009 09:12:05 GB Name: Richard Hide
Email: REHide@hongkongescape.org
Country: UK n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
My father served on MTB 07 of the 2nd MTB Flotilla in Hong Kong. These were BPB 60 footers of the same batch as the 1st MTB Flotilla in Malta. I am currently having a fully working model built for use and exhibition in the Hong Kong Museum
of Coastal Defence. I have many photos of these rare Scott-Pain early 60' MTBs from my fathers collection. The flotilla was scuttled on 26th Dec 1941 after an epic escape to mainland China. More at hongkongescape.org
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message #: 33
Date: Saturday August 15 2009 18:12:11 GB Name: Neil Bonnar
Email: neilbonnar898@hotmail.com
Country: Blighty n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Hi - my great uncle sailed out on the New Australia the 28th Jan 1953 just months prior to your family I just wanted to say what a great website and as a somewhat amateur geneaologist tracing his long lost Uncle what a pleasure to see the
ship he actually sailed on. He must have been charmed because having escaped a somewhat impoverished life he went on to win the Australian state lottery - he then proceeded to vanish into thin air...ah well once a scot always a
scot..thanks again for a great website. Neil Bonnar.
message #: 32
Date: Monday August 10 2009 17:11:31 GB Name: Ann Sorrell
Email: dharmabum2008-dustyrainbow@yahoo.co.uk
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
I travelled P&O Himalaya from Melbourne (or maybe it was Adelaide) to Southampton (or maybe it was Tilbury) in or around 1960 with my parents. I was 9 at the time. For proof of residency in Australia I am trying to find the date we left Australia and arrived in England. Can you help? I have an old Super8 film of my family walking in front of the Himalaya (which looks remarkablly similar to the pictures on your website) and of the friends/neighbours throwing
streamers on the dock in what I presume is Melbourne. If I can pinpoint the dates the Himalaya left say Melbourne from 1959 through to 1961 it would give me some idea. Many thanks Ann Sorrell PS We have a remarkably similar history by the way.
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message #: 31
Date: Friday July 31 2009 08:50:49 GB Name: Richard Daniells
Email: richard_daniells@yahoo.com
Country: England n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Found your website when doing some Family History research. My connection from the Linzey (Lindsey) 's from Enstone a place I must get round to visiting to try and find out more info about the lives and times of our mutual ancestors!!
Cheers Richard
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message #: 30
Date: Thursday July 23 2009 22:41:43 GB Name: Judy Dignum
Email:
Country: England n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I came across this website whilst researching my relatives' emigration to Australia. What a varied and interesting life you've had! Extremely interesting.
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message #: 29
Date: Sunday July 5 2009 10:58:28 GB Name: Greg Votolato
Email: gvotolato@gmail.com
Country: UK n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Dear Sir. I am enjoying looking at you excellent website. My specific interest however is the design of crew accommodation in ships such as those on which you have sailed. If you would be able to share with me your recollections of crew facilities and cabins on Himalaya Arcadia or any other ships on which you worked I would be most grateful and happy to credit to you any quotable material in future publications. In any case thanks for an enjoyable glimpse into
your experiences at sea. Greg Votolato
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message #: 28
Date: Saturday July 4 2009 12:19:02 GB Name: Andrea
Email:
Country: Wales n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Came across your site while looking for info on SS Nevasa. Would it be possible to use some of your info as a link on a forum for said ship? Thank you
message #: 27
Date: Thursday April 30 2009 15:04:03 GB Name: mary kinch
Email: mary55kinch@aol.co.uk
Country: england n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
I found you by looking up about when the Queen sailed on ss gothic our road is named after the ship the road next to us is jubilee do you have any info about this many thanks for your site
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message #: 26
Date: Tuesday April 28 2009 10:54:53 GB Name: ROBERT TIEY
Email: rstidey@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
OOPS!! fORGOT TO PUT THE SHIP NAME--ELLINIS
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message #: 25
Date: Tuesday April 28 2009 10:47:23 GB Name: ROBERT TIDEY
Email: rstidey@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
GREAT SITE I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO FIND 3 FELLOW PASSENGERS.LOST ALL PHOTOS AND CAN ONLY REMEMBER ONE NAME BRIAN ONE WAS SEASICK MOST OF THE WAY. WE LEFT SOUTHAMPTON IN 1970 AND ARRIVED IN SYDNEY IN MAY? IT WOULD BE NICE TO SEE WHERE THEY
ARE NOW.IF ANYONE CAN HELP IT WOULD BE GREAT.
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message #: 24
Date: Monday April 20 2009 04:42:16 GB Name: Walter Dressler
Email: walterdressler@gmx.net
Country: Australia n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
Travelled back from Sydney via Auckland Tahiti Panama Canal Curacao Lisbon on 'Fairsea'; 11 Nov. 1967 cannot find any info anywhere so if anyone has anything on this trip or were you on the ship on this trip/ would be glad to share with you? kind regards Walter
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message #: 23
Date: Saturday April 18 2009 03:04:54 GB Name: Marilynne
Email: Marilynne@islayconsulting.com
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
My parents (mother an Australian war bride father RN Fleet Air Arm) sailed from England to Australia on the first passenger liner to come to Australia from England after WWII. I believe it was the Strathnaver. It arrived in Sydney
harbour (Mum's home town) to a real Sydeny Harbour welcome on a spring morning. I was wondering if you knew of anywhere I ooulc find more information about this?
message #: 22
Date: Friday March 27 2009 15:18:41 GB Name: Michael Redgrove
Email: michael@redgrove.com
Country: China n/a:
n/a:
n/a:
Comments:
n my 16th birthday in 1961 I sailed from Tilbury for Sydney aboard SS Himalaya as a 'Bell Boy'. First running errands
then later entrusted with an up/down handle on a First Class elevator! Surviving passengers may remember having to step up or down from either elevator or deck as I could almost never get the blessed thing to 'line-up'. I shall never
forget what looked like a very tight squeeze under Sydney Harbour Bridge on our way round to Pier One. Every bit as memorable was returning to Tilbury with the 1961 Australian Cricket Team led by Richie Benaud. (I remember him telling
us his name should be pronounced Benard despite everyone calling him "Benno") During that homeward voyage some of us applied to join the company's new flagship Canberra. I was one of the lucky ones and joined her in Southampton for sea trials before sailing on the maiden voyage on 2nd June 1961... so I'm actually on board somewhere in those photos of
her arriving in Melbourne! I still have my Bell Boy's epaulettes in a glass cabinet!! I live in China now but was in Sydney only a few days ago (Mar 09) reliving those unforgettable memories as I do on every visit. Thank you for a wonderful website.
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message #: 21
Date: Tuesday March 10 2009 16:28:57 GB Name: Veronica Whitehead
Email: javacadia@talktalk.net
Country: England n/a:
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Comments:
Travelled back from Freemantle via Adelaide Melbourne Sydney Auckland Tahiti Los Angeles Panama Canal Curacao Lisbon on 'Fairsea';June-July 1965 cannot find any info anywhere so if anyone has anything on this trip or were you on the ship
on this trip/ would be glad to share with you ?
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message #: 20
Date: Saturday March 7 2009 04:13:55 GB Name: Al Ross
Email: alross2@aol.com
Country: USA n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi Ian Great site! The renderings by Turner are actually of the former 70' ELCO PTCs lend/leased to the RN which turned them into MGBs. Of course these boats were derived from one of BPB's private venture 70' boats but they are ELCOs. The most obvious difference is the shape of the pilot house/cockpit. Al Ross Co-author with John Lambert - "Allied Coastal Forces of World War II"
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message #: 19
Date: Friday March 6 2009 12:12:02 GB Name: Gemma Hollingsworth
Email: gemholly@westnet.com.au
Country: Australia n/a:
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Comments:
Wow! Don't remember how I ended up at this site but as net surfers know - one site just leads to another (& another). (Am a ship fanatic) Many thanks for the great pictures & memories. I was fortunate enough to travel to UK via Panama on the 'Australis' Jan'70. Did not have a camera then so the canal photos were great to see - what an unforgettably awesome experience. I married in the UK and 'emigrated' to Australia Jan'72 from UK on the 'Ellinis' via South Africa.
Thank you for your informative site - best of British luck to you & yours.
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message #: 18
Date: Wednesday March 4 2009 20:32:55 GB Name: Stephen Rollings
Email: stephenkrollings@btinternet.com
Country: United Kingdom n/a:
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Comments:
I need help. I am trying to sort out a mass of photographs taken by me and my late parents over a period of fifty years including a cruise we did on Chandris Cruises' Fantasia in the summer of 1964 its first year of operation. Sadly I have lost the brochure and I need its date and itinerary. I recall that it was Venice to Venice for 14 days and included
Haifa Greece and Dubrovnik. I shared a 4 berth cabin at a cost of 59 guineas which included return flights from/to London. Does anyone hold a 1964 Chandris brochure that they could copy to me or provide details? I tried Carnival Cruises but they could not assist. Many thanks. Stephen Rollings
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message #: 17
Date: Sunday February 22 2009 14:33:13 GB Name: terry gittoes
Email: gitteroni@tgittoes.freeserve.co.uk
Country: united kingdom n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
hello im from lymington. born 1932 on the quay hill i worked as a boy at the slipway and have a photo of all the workers in 1947/8 .went away to sea in 1948 now retired!! best regards terry gittoes
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message #: 16
Date: Monday February 2 2009 16:09:25 GB Name: Keith Proctor
Email: keithproctor@talktalk.net
Country: UK n/a:
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Comments:
As a native of Dublin I was interested in your Article on the Asgard which I came across whilst trawling through my old documents.
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message #: 15
Date: Sunday February 1 2009 12:48:04 GB Name: Robyn
Email: flightdeco@aol.com
Country: Australia n/a:
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Comments:
Hi there... I love this website - I have come across a few different sites created by ship-nuts... The old liners were
the best I agree.. so much more character! Did a cruise last year on the Pacific Dawn but it didnthave the atmosphere - actually was a like to a larger Fairstar with similar clientele. My favourite was ss Arcadia whichI cruise on in 1978 (twice) also cruised on Oriana in 78 83 & 85. Visited friens sailing on ss Australis on its final voyage from Sydney on
a steamy hot 19 Oct 1977. Also did inspection of ss Ellinis on 18 May 1977 in Pyrmont - this was on a Womans Weekly world discovery voyage and the last time in Sydney. My flatmate went to Greece on it...this made me decide to try and travel on a vintage liner before they all disappear! hence the trip on Arcadia...quite similar to Australis - but in
better shape. Thanks again for wonderful website! Rob
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message #: 14
Date: Wednesday January 21 2009 18:13:28 GB Name: Richard Hide
Email: REHide@hongkongescape.org
Country: UK n/a:
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Comments:
Nice site. I have been researching the 2nd MTB Flotilla based in Hong Kong 1039-1941. The flotilla was comprised of British Power Boats's 07-12 along with two 55 foot Thorneycroft's purchased from the Chinese navy. Three of the Power boats were lost in action and the remainder were scuttled at Nanao in Mirs Bay in the early hours of 26th December 1941 after a dramatic escape from Hong Kong with the legendry one legged Chinese Admiral Chan Chak. To view the photos of Power MTB's 07-12 visit: hongkongescape.org
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message #: 13
Date: Sunday January 18 2009 22:25:06 GB Name: Michael Pipe
Email: michaelp@optusnet.com.au
Country: England up to 1977 Now live in Australia n/a:
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Comments:
Hi Nice site found the pictures of the SS.Himalaya interesting I actually worked on the ship between 1972 and 1974 and
was on her last voyage to Taiwan to be scrapped. Worked as a Pantry steward and then a Cabin steward. A great adventure and many happy memories. I met my wife on this cruise still married after 33 yrs.
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message #: 12
Date: Thursday December 4 2008 13:22:50 GB Name: jackie dallos
Email: britanisgirl@yahoo.co.uk
Country: greece n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hello there it is always nice to find 'new' sites with information on the Chandris ships. I was a little disappointed however to see a slight inaccuracy with regard to the history of the Britanis. I worked on her from 1981-82 and again
from 1985 through to 91. My husband worked on her again in the late 90's when she was serving as an accomodation vessel at Guantanamo Bay (requisitioned by the US Gov.mt). She came to a rather sad but glorious end being towed to India for scrap. As she was taking water on board and listing very badly it was decided to cut her loose to avoid an ecological disaster. She is now resting in peace at the bottom of the ocean. Much more fitting than the 'prescribed' scrapyard. A
few plans had been hatched to 'recue' her as a floating museum hotel casino etc but no funding was forthcoming so she ended her days as mentioned. She was a fantastic ship with much character and most all who worked on her loved her dearly. Perhaps your summary of her life can be upgraded a little as the "old lady" (she was in the 80's the oldest
sailing cruise ship in the free world)surely deserves. Thanking you most sincerely Jackie
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message #: 11
Date: Sunday November 30 2008 17:42:06 GB Name: Pam Thirwell
Email: silvergirlswan@yahoo.co.uk
Country: Wales n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
My G.Grandmother was Mary Smart sister of the Jane Smart who married William Maurice Byard and mother of Hubert Byard amongst several others. Her father was Edwin Smart. I have been doing family history for a few years and was told by
one of my correspondents to look at your site. I live in Swansea and Mry Smart and sister Zipporah Smart both came here to live Just thought you might be interested.
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message #: 10
Date: Thursday November 27 2008 12:59:22 GB Name: Tina
Email: didimiuk@yahoo.co.uk
Country: England n/a:
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Comments:
I worked for E.H.Mundy Passenger Agencies in Jermyn Street London in 1974 and we as a travel agency sold Sitmar Line cruises. I knew Hugh Borge and Mr. Sharpe and travelled on a European cruise on the Fairstar. I have such happy memories!
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message #: 9
Date: Sunday November 23 2008 03:18:28 GB Name: H Miller
Email: h928miller@btinternet.com
Country: england n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Hi. great site.I wondered if you have any info of a ship Victoria that belonged to Australasian united s n co 1908.one
of my ancestors was a crew member but he disapeared after arriving from Aukland to Syney on 7/8 may 1908.his name was Edward Smytherman any ideas. regards Helen Miller nee Smytherman.
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message #: 8
Date: Tuesday November 4 2008 04:35:36 GB Name: jimmyp
Email: jimpingree@fsmail.net
Country: England n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
i there. came across your site from a link to masb32 (good chap clive). Such a shame there arent more of these lovely old boats left! Guess they'r not politically correct anymore or some guff like that. Hasnt stopped me looking for one
as a home though and got a couple of likeminded mates so a few may get a long term future if we can find saveable ones. If you know to any good hulls going cheap let me know as going to look at mtb458 in southampton(a wreck but if its the best left) Would like to think i could save mgb56(last 70ft whaleback) but it means a long project while sat in a
barge/ floating workshop and no garuantees we could get her out of the basin and into the barge:-/ may have a 42ftasr/seaplane tender for accomodation while fixing Sorry to send a negative update but Ambra(mtb 506) and Ria(unknown pennant) in malta have been broken up. Ria was broken before we knew and was reputedly a very solid boat.
Ambra was aquired by a friend for 1 maltese lira but unfortunately the yard bills(and toredo holes) mounted up faster than he could earn the cash and that was with the labour at bed and board rates. She wasnt lost without a fight! If you fancy an interesting day out then shoreham near brighto
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message #: 7
Date: Monday November 3 2008 20:40:06 GB Name: howard b. fowler
Email: villacruise@aol.com
Country: england n/a:
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Comments:
please show my guest book entry no 171 of 2007
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message #: 6
Date: Monday November 3 2008 17:07:01 GB Name: edward
Email: baybrook@zonnet.nl
Country: holland n/a:
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Comments:
Ian what a great site found it by searching for the Sitmar Liner Castle Felice. Did a trip on her in Sep 1961 Auckland-
to the UK. Trying to find a few onboard pictures as well as a copy of the passenger list.Would love to hear from anyone who could help. Best wishes Edward
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message #: 5
Date: Friday September 19 2008 19:49:31 GB Name: Steven Broom
Email: sbroom@btinternet.com
Country: England n/a:
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Comments:
Very interested in the SS Ellinis page. I travelled on that ship with my family from England to Australia in December 1972 to Jan 73 so it must have travelled on to pick you up on the same trip! We were "ten pound poms". I was 5 years old at the time and had my 6th birthday on the ship (1st Jan 1973). Thanks for the site and the info.
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message #: 4
Date: Saturday September 13 2008 18:25:09 GB Name: Keith Luxton
Email: Lucky351@verizon.net
Country: USA n/a:
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Comments:
Hi I am trying to locate a large Chandris liner called I believe ORONTES (48 000 Tons) I sailed on this to Australia in September 1961. I cannot find it on the internet. Any ideas Thanks and best regards Keith
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message #: 3
Date: Tuesday September 9 2008 09:09:33 BST Name: Bob Frost
Email: dawlish@bigpond.com
Country: Australia n/a:
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Comments:
I have read your guest book entries with much interest. I was a purser with the Orient Line between 1957 and 1963
sailing on Orion Orcades Oronsay Orsova and The Oriana. I now live in Tasmania and would be very pleased to hear from anyone who may have served at much the same time as I did in the Orient Line.
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message #: 2
Date: Tuesday September 2 2008 12:42:05 BST Name: Derek Tigwell
Email:
Country: Australia n/a: n/a
n/a: n/a n/a: n/a
Comments:
Ian Working OK now. The message said something like web page unavailable. Regards Derek
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message #: 1
Date: Tuesday September 2 2008 01:38:34 PDT Name: Ian Byard
Email: maritime@yalumba.co.uk
Country:
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Comments:
This is a test message to see if the new book works
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