Pearling lugger COONAGLEBAR II
Datec 1940
Object numberV00000446
NameModel
MediumTimber, paint, varnish
DimensionsOverall: 960 x 1030 x 300 mm
ClassificationsModels
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from L E Swann
DescriptionThe pearling lugger COONAGLEBAR II is represented in this ship model mounted on a wooden stand. The model was probably made by a Torres Strait Islander and its construction features a solid hull, two-masts with rigging and tiller. These boats have been designed specifically for pearl diving in the waters off northern Australia.HistoryPearling has been a major industry in Northern Australia for over 100 years. It was initially a practice of the local Aboriginal population who traded pearls with neighboring islanders including Macassan traders.
Pearl seekers started to infiltrate the Torres Strait by the 1860s with the Indigenous population at first largely unwelcome to their efforts. The first established pearling station was set up in 1868 by Captain Banner and then by 1883 there were 33 licensed stations operating in the Torres Strait. Pearl shell was a valuable
material before the days of plastic and were used to make buckles, buttons, jewellery and cutlery. Shells from the Torres Strait were popular with the English and American clothing industry of the time for the manufacture of buttons and buckles.
Pearling luggers are designed expressly for pearl oyster fishing. Luggers towed their divers over the pearl beds by drifting, often with just the sail on the after mast set. The older traditional vessels utilise sail power featuring two sails, two masts and natural timbers. Contemporary vessels have become motorised with no sail power.SignificanceThis ship model is representative of the maritime commercial activity of pearling off northern Australia and the vessels used in the trade.
1970s
