Sydney Harbour : showboat souvenir and harbour guide
Datec 1940
Object number00000006
NameBooklet
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsDisplay dimensions: 180 x 490 x 18 mm
ClassificationsToys, games and souvenirs
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionSouvenir booklet and harbour guide from Sydney Ferries Limited showboat KALANG.HistoryThe ferry KALANG was initially run by Sydney Ferries as a vehicular ferry across Sydney Harbour but the completion of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the effects of the Great Depression saw the vessel laid up until 1938. KALANG was then converted into a successful harbour showboat until 1942 when the government requisitioned it for service in New Guinea as a stores and repairs vessel.
At the end of the war KALANG resumed the role as a popular entertainment vessel, hosting bands and big name performers until 1960 when it changed ownership and was renamed the SYDNEY QUEEN. Repainted and converted to oil, the new owners also changed their target audience and business suffered.
From 1963 - 1971 the vessel was either laid up or attempting other enterprises, including a floating restaurant and casino. None were successful and in 1971 the KALANG was sold to a company in the Philippines. On the way to Manilla under tow with three other vessels, KALANG went ashore at Trial Bay and attempts to move her and two other stranded ferries were futile. The KALANG was deliberately burnt out and its remains can still be partially seen today.SignificanceThe vessel was built in 1926 as the steam car ferry SS KALANG for the cross harbour run on Port Jackson. It was later was converted to a showboat after the opening of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932.
