Builder's ship model of tug ELTON GRIFFIN

Images(2)

Builder's ship model of tug ELTON GRIFFIN

Dateafter 1963

Object number00030269

NameModel

MediumPlastic, brass

DimensionsOverall: 313 x 600 x 300 mm

ClassificationsModels

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from McIlwraith McEacharn Limited

Collections

Model ships

Terms

DescriptionThis builders' ship model represents the tug ELTON GRIFFIN. All the gear and rigging on this model is to scale including the deck winches, lights, arials, radar fitted bridge, life boat and brass propellor.HistoryTug boat services began to operate in Australian harbours when commercial activities began to expand. Initially most tugs were paddle steamers that operated as freelancers to gain work towing, salvaging and helping at ship scrapping. ELTON GRIFFIN was 295 tonnes tug boat built in 1963 by Adelaide Ship Port. It operated for McIlwraith MacEacharn and was still in service in 1975. In 1950 it was involved in the removal of a pontoon bridge. In 1887 McIlwraith and McEacharn first entered Australian trade by transporting immigrants from Britain to Queensland. They also played a role in the coal trade and competed in the competitive market of passenger trade. In 1957 McIlwraith and McEacharn merged with the Adelaide Steamship Company and the Melbourne Steamship Company to form Bulk Ships Pty Ltd. In 1964 it became Associated Steamships and replaced their 12 fleet conventional cargo vessels with 3 container ships.SignificanceThis model is representative of tug boats in Australia and shipbuilding techniques and methods.