Twin bulb models of AUSTRALIA II and LIBERTY
Maker
Rodney Mills
Date1983 - 1988
Object number00001848
NameModel
MediumGlass, timber, plastic, lacquered pine
DimensionsOverall: 141 x 393 x 139 mm, 0.85 kg
Display Dimensions: 1412 x 393 x 139 mm
Display Dimensions: 1412 x 393 x 139 mm
ClassificationsModels
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from R Mills
DescriptionThis twin bulb bottle contains two models which depict AUSTRALIA II and LIBERTY racing in the America's Cup in 1983 off Newport, Rhode Island. AUSTRALIA II won the series for the Royal Perth Yacht Club of Australia by defeating the American defender LIBERTY of the New York Yacht Club 4 - 3 in the series. This ended the New York Yacht Club's longest winning streak in sporting history.HistoryThe 19.5 m long, aluminium International 12 Metre class yacht AUSTRALIA II was built by Steve Ward in Cottlesloe, WA and launched in 1982 at Fremantle. It was designed by Ben Lexcen for a syndicate headed by Alan Bond, and for both of them it was their fourth challenge for the trophy since 1974. The entire project was kept under a veil of secrecy to protect details of its radical design. It was only after AUSTRALIA II had won the series that the shape of the hull and keel were revealed to the public.
AUSTRALIA II, led by skipper John Bertrand, dominated the 1983 Louis Vuitton Cup challenger series leading into the America's Cup series against LIBERTY, helmed by Dennis Conner. Gear failure was a significant factor in AUSTRALIA II's first two losses; however it regrouped to win the third race. Another loss in the fourth race put AUSTRALIA II on the brink of failure, but the pendulum swung back in its favour when it responded with two comprehensive wins to level the series at 3-all.
The final race was close with LIBERTY leading comfortably into the final downwind leg before AUSTRALIA II made their move and gained the lead for the first time before going on to win the race and the series 4 - 3. AUSTRALIA II gained Australian and international significance as the yacht that ended the longest winning streak in sporting history.
SignificanceThe impact of AUSTRALIA II's win in 1983 at Newport Rohode Island, led to much activity in its support, including the making of this model. This model sums up the nations pride in this sporting achievement.
