Aquatic Show and Sports Display 1932 program
Date1932
Object number00039775
NameProgram
MediumInk on paper
DimensionsShowcase: 280 x 255 mm, 0.44 lb. (0.2 kg)
ClassificationsEphemera
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionA program for the Aquatic Show and Sports Display of 1932. It features a list of exhibitors including Lars Halvorsen as well as details of swimming, motor boating, surfing and sailing events for the 1932 season.
HistoryAn article from The Sydney Morning Herald from November, 1932 reads:
"This afternoon at 3.30 o'clock, the Lord Mayor of Sydney (Alderman S. Welder) will perform the official opening of the aquatic show and sports display, 1932, which is held on the ground for and roof of the Grace Building, King and York Streets, between 10am and 10pm each day, until Saturday December 3rd. The display is the first attempt of those who are engaged in the aquatic industries to ring together examples of their arts and show to those who usually confine their activities to the land the kind of work which is being done daily around the shore of the harbour.
Prominent among the exhibits will be Mr. R. Walder's well-known hydroplane, Century Tire, as well as other examples pf local builders work in the production nd fitting of fast launches. There will also be further examples of boat builders' arts in the shape of dinghies and fully-rigged skiffs and like craft, including a new type of boat which has been adopted by the Vaucluse "Junior" Amateur Sailing Club, and which is of the unsinkable variety.... The other exhibits will include marine engines, both inboard and outboard, batteries, sails, timber, ropes, anchors, deck fittings, cabin fittings, and other accessories for boats of all types, swimming and fishing gear, paints and varnishes, photographic and wireless equipment, and other gear suitable for use on boats, and a display of model yachts, both sail and steam tugs, and other craft, steam marine engines, and to make good measure, railway locomotives.
On each evening of the show there will be either a band recital, a physical culture display, or a demonstration by the Navy League Sea Cadets on the roof, and in addition to other attractions of a carnival nature will be provided. Tonight at 7.30 o'clock, the band of the Young Australia League will play. An interesting feature of the undertaking will be short lectures, some of which will be illustrated."
It is interesting to note that one of these "carnival nature" attractions was the display of "Phar Laps hide" as an example of the taxidermist’s art.
SignificanceThis Norwegian-Australian family of boat builders and champion sailors had a passion for boating that has touched the lives of many Australians. The Halvorsens designed and built a wide range of recreational and work boats, including motor cruisers that are now collectors' classics. Their large hire fleet on Sydney's pristine Pittwater opened the world of boating to many Australians.The Halvorsen name has left its mark on Australian boating. Their designs have become icons and a cult amongst vintage boat enthusiasts.
The legacy of this Norwegian-Australian boatbuilding family is more than a diverse range of recreational and work boats. Through their hire fleet, based on Sydney's Pittwater, the Halvorsens introduced countless people to the fun of recreational boating. They also distinguished themselves nationally and internationally in competitive sailing.
